What Causes Itchy Red Bump On Penis?

Posted on Thu, 26 Mar 2015

Question: On the tip of my penis I've noticed it being red and almost feels like it's raw. It doesn't itch, just some discomfort while walking. I've tried nystatin, aloe Vera, and Vaseline. I went to the doctor and they gave me a steroid shot. Went away for a couple of weeks, then came back. Note: This rash started when I became active in the gym.

Answered by Dr. Shahid Hassan (43 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
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Detailed Answer:
Hi, Welcome to HealthcareMagic,

Most common cause of redness and raw area on the tip of penis is Balanoposthitis, it is a candida/fungal infection. Examination of glans and the prepuce often reveals a red, moist macular(Flat area with change in colour) lesion. Associated redness is also seen.
Potassium hydroxide (KOH) slide preparation is done for visualization of the candidal hyphae and it is confirmatory in diagnosis.
Topical as well as oral antifungal is given for the clearance of lesion.
Proper hygiene with frequent washing and drying of the prepuce is an essential to prevent its recurrence.

Other differentials are Zoon balanitis. It is a chronic inflammation of the glans penis and foreskin.

I would like to examine your clinical photograph before reaching any provisional diagnosis.
There is a feature to upload the image by yourself on the right side of this query page. You may utilize that. Alternatively, you can mail it to YYYY@YYYY with subject line as "ATTN: Dr. Shahid Hassan".

Hope this will help you.
Thanks.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj