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Differential Diagnosis for Penile Head Skin Lesion

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis
    • Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans penis and is a common condition, especially in uncircumcised males. It can be caused by poor hygiene, infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral), or allergic reactions. The presentation of balanitis can vary but often includes redness, swelling, and sometimes a discharge or ulceration on the penile head.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses
    • Genital Warts (Condylomata Acuminata): Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these are common sexually transmitted infections that can present as lesions on the penile head. They are usually painless but can be itchy or bleed.
    • Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Infection: This viral infection can cause painful blisters or ulcers on the genital area, including the penile head. It's a common sexually transmitted infection.
    • Syphilitic Chancre: The primary stage of syphilis, caused by Treponema pallidum, can present as a single, painless ulcer (chancre) on the genital area, including the penile head.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses
    • Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Although rare, this type of skin cancer can present as a lesion on the penile head. It's more common in uncircumcised men or those with a history of HPV infection. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
    • Malignant Melanoma: Though extremely rare on the penis, melanoma can occur and is highly aggressive. Any pigmented lesion on the genital area should be evaluated for melanoma due to its potential for rapid progression and high mortality if not caught early.
  • Rare Diagnoses
    • Kaposi's Sarcoma: A type of cancer that can cause lesions on the skin, including the genital area. It's more common in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS.
    • Lichen Sclerosus: A chronic inflammatory skin condition that can cause white, patchy skin lesions on the genital area, including the penile head. It can lead to scarring and is more common in uncircumcised males.
    • Zoon's Balanitis: A rare, benign condition characterized by a chronic, painless, erythematous plaque on the glans penis, typically in middle-aged to elderly uncircumcised men.

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Professional Medical Disclaimer

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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