What is the cause of a lump around the neck of the glans (glans penis), accompanied by redness and swelling?

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Differential Diagnosis for Penis Lump around Neck of Glans, Red, Swelling

  • Single most likely diagnosis
    • Phimosis: This condition is characterized by the inability to retract the foreskin over the glans penis, which can lead to swelling, redness, and a lump-like appearance around the neck of the glans due to accumulated smegma or poor hygiene.
  • Other Likely diagnoses
    • Balanitis: An inflammation of the glans penis, often caused by poor hygiene, infections, or allergies, which can present with redness, swelling, and a lump around the neck of the glans.
    • Penile cysts or abscesses: These can form around the neck of the glans due to blocked sebaceous glands or infections, leading to a lump, redness, and swelling.
    • Smegma accumulation: Smegma is a substance that can accumulate under the foreskin, causing irritation, redness, and swelling, which may be perceived as a lump around the neck of the glans.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
    • Penile cancer: Although rare, penile cancer can present with a lump, redness, and swelling around the glans or foreskin, making it crucial to rule out, especially in high-risk individuals or those with persistent symptoms.
    • Gangrene or necrotizing fasciitis: Severe infections can lead to gangrene or necrotizing fasciitis, which are medical emergencies requiring immediate attention. Symptoms can include severe pain, redness, swelling, and a lump, particularly if there's a history of trauma or infection.
  • Rare diagnoses
    • Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV): A sexually transmitted infection caused by certain strains of Chlamydia trachomatis, which can lead to swelling, redness, and lymphadenopathy, including around the genital area.
    • Kaposi's sarcoma: A type of cancer that can affect the skin and other organs, often associated with immune suppression (e.g., HIV/AIDS), which can present with lesions or lumps on the penis, including around the glans.

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This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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