A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
Y

Genital sores - male
Definition:
A male genital sore is any sore or lesion that appears on the male genitalia.

Alternative Names:
Sores or ulcers on the male genitals

Considerations:

Sores or lesions on the male genitalia may have many causes. Often, the lesions of most concern are those seen with sexually transmitted diseases (STD). Genital herpes, syphilis, chancroid, granuloma inguinale, lymphogranuloma venereum are all associated with ulcers on the genitals.

Other lesions in this area may be caused by venereal warts, molluscum contagiosum, as well as non-sexually transmitted diseases. All cases should be promptly evaluated by a medical professional.

Itching, painful urination, drainage from the penis or pain at the site of the sore may accompany genital lesions. These lesions can be singular or multiple, and they may also be present elsewhere on the body (such as the mouth and throat).

Common Causes:
Home Care:
Avoid self treatment before seeing a doctor. It can mask symptoms and make diagnosis more difficult. Refrain from sexual contact until you undergo medical evaluation.
Call your health care provider if:
  • There are any unexplained genital lesions.
  • If new lesions appear in other parts of your body.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting your symptom in detail may include:
  • Type of lesion
  • Other descriptors
    • Is the lesion painful?
    • Does it itch?
    • What color is the lesion?
    • Does the border look distinct (sharp) or blurry?
  • Time pattern
    • When did you first notice the lesion?
    • How long have you had it?
    • Have you ever had a similar lesion in the past?
  • Distribution
    • Single versus multiple lesions
  • Location
    • Exactly where on the genitals is the lesion located?
    • Are there other lesions elsewhere on the body?
  • Other

The physical examination will include detailed examination of the genitals and pelvis, skin, lymph nodes, mouth, and throat.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

INTERVENTION:
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and may include antiviral medicines, antibiotics or other agents. Your doctor may ask you to avoid sexual activity or use a condom for a period of time depending on the diagnosis.
Review Date: 8/17/2001
Reviewed By: Rocio Hurtado, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com