Genital dermatoses are conditions that affect the skin around the genitals in both men and women. These disorders can cause symptoms such as discomfort, pain, redness, and itching. Common genital skin diseases include genital warts, herpes, and fungal infections. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help relieve symptoms and prevent further complications.
Examples of sexually transmitted genital dermatosis include:
• Genital warts
• Genital herpes
• Syphilis
Examples of non-sexually transmitted genital dermatoses:
• Posteritis (balanitis)
• Eczema
• Folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles)
• Sportsman’s disease (fungal groin infection)
Common genital skin disease symptoms include itching, pain, bleeding, rash, blisters, ulcers, etc. Rarely, penile cancer may appear only as a discoloration of the skin. Some conditions can be diagnosed clinically, while others may require further investigations. Treatment may range from creams and oral medications to minor surgery. Make sure to see your doctor if you have symptoms of genital skin disease, regardless of age or whether you are sexually active!