Have Loss Of Pigmentation On Penis. Can This Be A Form Of Herpes?

Posted on Mon, 23 Sep 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 Answered on

Wed, 16 Oct 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I have loss of pigmentation on my penis on the underside of my shaft. I am african american. can this be a form of herpes. it does it a little. and I do have on small red spot that does itch. The red spot is not raised. it is sort of like a very brush burn or bursted pimple but flat.

Answered by Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Herpes does not present with loss of pigment

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I have never seen herpes presenting with loss of pigment on the shaft of the penis. It was burning pain, redness, rash and vesicles.

Pigment on the undershaft of the penis depends on the melanocytes in the hair follicles of the shaft. These cells can be disrupted for multiple reasons and it is commonly observed, hence the loss of pigment. We cannot derive the exact reasons most times.

Regarding the red spot is because of friction during an intercourse or because of a rub by some sort of allergen. It should fade off on its own. If it stings are stays more than two weeks then you can get a PCP see it in your area.

Hope the explanations help.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar