Dear Readers,
B.F. writes Lifeline from St. Ann's Bay, St. Ann. His problem is one of recurring, intermittent itching and 'tickling' of his genitals. He has seen many doctors for this condition and taken different Antibiotics. He has had blood and urine tests done, the results of which are all negative. No disorder has been identified by the tests, but the problem persists. He has now noticed some small warts on his penis. B.F. asks Lifeline to advise him on the most likely cause of his problems and how to go about obtaining a remedy.
B.F. has seen many doctors but Lifeline wonders if his choice of physicians has included either a urologist or a dermatologist. These specialists should, between them, be able to identify and treat those genital problems which are internal as well as those related to the skin.
FUNGAL INFECTION
Two common causes of itching over the genital region are Tinea Cruris, a fungal infection commonly affecting the groin area, and Contact Dermatitis.
Occasionally the skin condition, Psoriasis, can also cause genital itching. Tinea Cruris is one of the causes of Jock Itch and can cause itching and moistness over the inner thighs, groin region, scrotum and penis. It is not a serious infection but can be difficult to fully eradicate and recurrences of the infection with its concomitant itch, are common.
This fungus loves hot places and will be more difficult to eradicate if the host persists in wearing tight underwear and thick clothing or if the person sweats alot in the groin region. There are many topical and oral antifungal preparations which can be used successfully to treat this infection and treatment can be modified over a prolonged period of months to diminish the possibility of recurrences.
Some individuals are sensitive to the materials which are used to make their underwear, on to a dye in the material, or to powder or perfume applied to the skin. Sensitivity can occur to many things which come in contact with the skin, and can cause genital itching or rashes.
TRANSMITTED SEXUALLY
Infection in the male urethra (urine tubel) with candida species (a fungus) or with Herpes Simplex (a virus) can sometimes cause itching and discomfort inside the penis itself, without visible signs. A Urologist would be a good physician to consult about this.
Genital warts are usually the result of an infection, most commonly a viral infection with the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). These warts are commonly located on the male and female genitalia and over the perianal area. Most often they are transmitted sexually.
Treatment is available either by Electro-Cavtery or by the application of Aldara (antiviral) cream three times weekly directly to the warts. Podophyllin application can also be used with success and are less expensive, but also less pleasant, alternative.
Condylomata Lata are another kind of genital warts which result from infection with the Veneral disease, Syphillis. These warts are not as commonly occurring as those caused by HPV infection. The cure here is to treat the syphilitic infection.
LIFELINE
P.O. Box 1731
Kingston 8
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