Red Rash That Appears Over My Penis Head With Itches And Sometimes Bleeds

Posted on Sat, 16 Sep 2023

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

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 Answered on

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 Last reviewed on

Question : I have a persistent red rash that appears over my penis head. It sometimes itches and sometimes bleeds and have had it on and off for about 8 years.
I have been told it’s Balanitis and Canesten cream gets rid of it but it always comes back. I have been told to use daktacourt but yet to use it.
There is no odour, no discharge and I have had a negative STI check. It looks scaly sometimes and really dry.
My blood sugar levels have been tested and are fine. Is there anything I am eating that may cause it?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (-5 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Photograph required

Detailed Answer:
Hello ,
This will help me in giving a closer diagnosis and better way of management .
You can upload photos here or can even email me the photograph
Thank you .

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (9 hours later)

Thank you I have sent some photos to the email address you have provided

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (18 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Get tested

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the follow up and photographs.
Most important cause for recurrent balanitis is herpes simplex.
Please get tested for Herpes.
Get HSV 1 & 2 IgG and IgM done.
This should help in diagnosis.
If it turns out to be negative then there is nothing to worry as balanitis can be there even due to dryness.
Let me know the report so I can help you better.
Let me know if you have any other doubts.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T