Differential Diagnosis for Burning around Head of Penis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is a common condition that can cause burning sensations, especially around the genital area, including the head of the penis. The burning is typically associated with urination.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Balanitis: An inflammation of the glans (head) of the penis, often caused by poor hygiene, infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral), or allergic reactions. It can cause redness, swelling, and a burning sensation.
- Urethritis: Inflammation of the urethra, often due to infection, which can cause a burning sensation during urination and around the genital area.
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) infection: Genital herpes can cause painful blisters or sores around the genital area, including the head of the penis, and may be accompanied by a burning sensation.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Gonorrhea or Chlamydia: These sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause symptoms similar to UTIs or urethritis, including burning during urination. If left untreated, they can lead to serious complications such as epididymitis, prostatitis, and infertility.
- Syphilis: Another STI that can cause a variety of symptoms, including sores or rashes around the genital area, which might be accompanied by a burning sensation. Syphilis can lead to severe health issues if not treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Lichen Sclerosus: A rare condition that creates patchy, white skin that's thinner than normal. It can cause itching, burning, and pain, especially if the skin tears.
- Peyronie's Disease: Characterized by the development of scar tissue inside the penis, leading to curved, painful erections. While not typically associated with burning sensations around the head of the penis, it can cause discomfort and should be considered in the differential diagnosis for penile symptoms.
- Fixed Drug Eruption: A condition where certain medications cause skin lesions or blisters that can appear anywhere on the body, including the genital area, and may be accompanied by a burning sensation.