Treatment of Male STIs Requiring Topical Cream
For male STIs requiring topical antifungal cream, miconazole 2% cream applied twice daily for 7 days is the recommended first-line treatment for balanitis caused by fungal infection. 1
Common Male STIs Requiring Topical Treatment
Fungal Balanitis (Candida Infection)
Fungal infections of the penis, particularly the glans, can occur in men and require topical antifungal treatment. This condition is characterized by:
- Erythematous areas on the glans penis
- Pruritus or irritation
- Often occurs in sex partners of women with vaginal candidiasis
Treatment Options:
First-line treatment:
- Miconazole 2% cream applied to affected areas twice daily for 7 days 1
Alternative treatments:
Application Instructions
- Apply a small amount of cream to the affected areas
- Ensure complete coverage of irritated or erythematous skin
- Continue treatment for the full prescribed duration even if symptoms improve
Other STIs Requiring Topical Treatment
Pediculosis Pubis (Pubic Lice)
Patients typically present with pruritus and visible lice on pubic hair.
Treatment Options:
- Permethrin 1% creme rinse applied to affected areas and washed off after 10 minutes 1
- Pyrethrins with piperonyl butoxide applied to affected areas and washed off after 10 minutes 1
- Lindane 1% shampoo applied for 4 minutes and thoroughly washed off (not recommended for pregnant individuals or children under 2) 1
Scabies
Characterized by intense pruritus that often worsens at night.
Treatment Options:
- Permethrin cream (5%) applied to all areas of the body from the neck down and washed off after 8-14 hours 1
Important Considerations
When to Seek Medical Care
- If symptoms persist after completing treatment
- If symptoms worsen during treatment
- If new symptoms develop
- For recurrent infections, which may indicate an underlying condition or reinfection from a partner
Partner Management
- Sex partners within the last month should be evaluated and treated if they have symptoms 1
- For fungal balanitis, treatment of male partners is not routinely recommended unless they are symptomatic 1
Prevention
- Use barrier methods (condoms) during sexual activity
- Maintain good personal hygiene
- Avoid sharing personal items like towels or clothing
- Complete the full course of treatment to prevent recurrence
Follow-Up
- Return for follow-up only if symptoms persist or recur after treatment 1
- Re-treatment may be necessary if symptoms do not resolve with initial therapy
Caution
- Oil-based creams and ointments may weaken latex condoms and diaphragms, increasing risk of breakage 1
- Refer to condom product labeling for additional information
- Consider abstaining from sexual activity until treatment is complete and symptoms have resolved
Remember that proper diagnosis is essential before starting treatment. If you haven't been diagnosed by a healthcare provider, seek medical attention for proper evaluation and treatment recommendations.