What is a circular rash on the head of my penis that isn't itchy or painful? - #29540
I have a strange, circular rash on the head of my penis. It contains no fluid or blood, and there is no itching or pain.
How long have you had this rash?:
- More than a monthHave you noticed any changes in the rash's appearance?:
- Yes, it has grown largerDo you have any other symptoms associated with the rash?:
- No other symptomsHave you had any new sexual partners recently?:
- No, same partner for over a yearHave you used any new products or medications on your genital area?:
- No, same products as alwaysDo you have any history of skin conditions or allergies?:
- Yes, I have eczema or psoriasisHow would you describe your overall health recently?:
- Good, but a little stressed100% Anonymously
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Doctors' responses
A circular rash on the head of the penis that is not itchy or painful and has slowly enlarged over a month is most commonly caused by a benign skin condition rather than an emergency. The leading possibilities include Tinea corporis, Psoriasis, or Granuloma annulare, especially since you already have a history of eczema or psoriasis.
A fungal infection can appear as a round or ring-shaped patch that slowly expands, sometimes with a clearer center. Psoriasis on the glans (penile psoriasis) can also look like a smooth, well-defined circular red patch without scaling, itching, or pain. Less commonly, a condition called Lichen planus can present this way.
Because the rash has been present for more than a month and is growing, it is reasonable to have it examined in person by a clinician to confirm the diagnosis. This is usually straightforward with a visual exam and sometimes a simple skin scraping test. Most causes are treatable with topical antifungal or anti-inflammatory creams.
You should seek prompt evaluation sooner if the rash starts to ulcerate, bleed, become painful, spread rapidly, or if new symptoms appear such as discharge or swollen lymph nodes.
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