Sores on the penis may result from a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as herpes, or a skin condition like psoriasis. Diabetic ulcers and cancerous tumors can also affect the penis.
While some penis sores will clear up on their own, many require treatment to prevent symptoms from getting worse, complications, and transmission to others.
In this article, we list 12 potential causes of penis sores and the treatments available for each one.
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that passes from one person to another during sexual activity. In the United States,
The herpes simplex virus causes genital herpes. Its symptoms can include painful, itchy, fluid-filled, blistering sores on the penis and other parts of the genitals. When these blisters burst, they can leave scars.
Genital warts are another type of viral STI, caused by the human papillomavirus. They appear on the penis as small, bumpy, sometimes stalky, cauliflower-like growths. Genital warts can cause itching and discomfort.
Approximately
If the warts do not cause pain and discomfort, then no treatment is necessary. For up to 1 in 3 people with the condition, the warts will go away on their own within 2 years.
Syphilis is a severe bacterial infection and another type of STI.
In the early stages of infection, syphilis usually causes a hard, painless, red sore on the penis. This sore lasts for
Untreated, syphilis can lead to:
- cardiovascular problems
- dementia
- hearing or vision loss
- increased risk of HIV infection
- meningitis
- pregnancy, childbirth, and fetal complications
- stroke
If a person suspects syphilis, they must seek medical attention as early as possible to prevent the infection from progressing and causing severe, lasting health complications.
Scabies is a contagious skin condition that can affect many parts of the body, including the penis.
People get scabies when the Sarcoptes scabiei mite burrows into the skin. Sexual contact increases the risk of scabies in the penis.
Scabies causes tiny blisters or sores on the skin that are extremely itchy, especially at night. These sores typically occur in thin, irregular lines showing the path of the mite under the skin.
After an infestation occurs, a person who has never had scabies before may not develop symptoms until after
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection. Anyone can catch molluscum contagiosum from direct contact with others or from sharing towels or personal items. Sexual contact can cause it to develop on the penis.
Symptoms include itchy, small, pearly papules with a depressed center, which produces a cheesy substance. These can occur alone or in clusters.
Many cases clear up without treatment within 6 to 9 months. While sores are present, people can transmit molluscum contagiosum to others.
Chancroid is a bacterial infection caused by the Haemophilus ducreyi bacterium. It spreads from one person to another through sex without barrier protection.
The infection causes small, red, raised sores to form on the penis. These are itchy and painful, and they ooze blood or other fluid when they later open and become ulcerative.
Other symptoms include pain during sex or urination and swelling in the groin.
Chancroid is a risk factor for HIV infection.
Granuloma inguinale, or donovanosis, is a bacterial STI that causes ulcers to form on the genitals and anus. It is
In the beginning, the infection causes small, painless bumps. Over time, these sores slowly develop into deepening ulcers that bleed.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition that causes red, scaly patches of skin. On the penis and genitals, it can cause:
- a red rash with silvery scales
- dry, cracking skin that may bleed
- itching, pain, and discomfort
Symptoms vary from one person to another. In some, it may appear as just a few spots, while others experience a widespread rash.
Atopic dermatitis, or eczema, is a chronic skin condition. It can affect many body parts, including the penis.
An eczema rash causes red, flaky bumps that itch. The bumps may blister and burst before forming a scab.
Eczema occurs in people with a gene variant that affects their skin’s ability to protect against irritants and allergens. Penis eczema rashes may result from contact with scented cleansing products, laundry detergents, or clothing chafing.
Lichen planus is another autoimmune skin condition. It causes an itchy rash characterized by flat, purple-red bumps. The rash may develop on the penis, inner arms, wrists, ankles, or other body parts.
These sores may form blisters that ooze and crust over. Painful, white sores that look like lace may also develop in the mouth.
Diabetes ulcers typically appear on the feet. However, an older case report describes penile ulcers as a result of diabetes. In this case, treatment involved antifungal cream and medication to control blood sugar levels.
More common symptoms of diabetes mellitus include:
- slow healing sores on the skin
- frequent skin infections
- increased thirst and urination
- extreme hunger
- fatigue and irritability
- blurred vision
Penile cancer is a
- a lump or small, crusty sore or ulcer that may bleed
- changes in skin color
- thickening of the skin
- a rash under the foreskin
- odorous discharge or bleeding under the foreskin
- flat growths
The outlook for people with penis sores depends on the underlying cause. Typically, penis sores occur due to a STI or chronic skin condition. It is important to avoid sexual activity until a doctor determines the precise cause of the sores.
Seek prompt medical attention if other symptoms accompany the sore, such as:
- painful urination or ejaculation
- unusual discharge from the penis or the sores
- fever or chills
- fatigue or a general feeling of illness
- unexplained weight loss
The earlier a person seeks treatment, the better the outcome.
Sores on the penis can have various causes, ranging from benign to serious. A person can discuss their symptoms with a doctor and follow the treatment recommendations they give.