Differential Diagnosis for Ulcer and Itchiness on Penile Head
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Genital herpes: This is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause painful ulcers and itching on the genital area, including the penile head. The presence of multiple small vesicles that rupture to form ulcers is characteristic.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Syphilis: The primary stage of syphilis is characterized by a painless chancre, which is an ulcer on the genital area. However, some patients may experience itching or discomfort.
- Genital warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as small, flat, or raised growths on the penis and may cause itching.
- Eczema/Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis or eczema can cause itching and skin lesions on the penile head, which may appear as ulcers if scratched excessively.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Penile cancer: Although rare, any persistent ulcer on the penis should raise suspicion for penile cancer, especially in uncircumcised men or those with a history of HPV infection.
- Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV): A sexually transmitted infection caused by certain strains of Chlamydia trachomatis, which can cause ulcers, lymphadenopathy, and potentially severe complications if not treated.
- Rare diagnoses
- Behçet's disease: A rare condition that can cause genital ulcers, among other symptoms like oral ulcers and eye inflammation.
- Fixed drug eruption: A condition where certain medications cause skin lesions or ulcers at the same site each time the drug is taken, which could potentially occur on the genital area.