March 23rd, 2016
Genital rash refers to onset of bumps or skin lesions on the private parts of the body. It is imperative to mention that genital rash is not a disease per se. In other words, genital rash is a symptom that is suggestive of an ongoing pathological process and may culminate in complications if not addressed appropriately.
Classic symptoms of genital rash are largely dependent on the causative agent. Most common symptoms are:
The etiology of genital rash can be infectious or non-infectious. However, it is imperative to mention that more than 80% cases of adult genital rash in clinical practice are due to sexually transmitted diseases. Most common STIs presenting with genital rash are:
The appearance of rash can help a great deal in making preliminary diagnosis. For example, rash of syphilis is characterized by appearance of a red, solitary and painless sore in the genital region within a few days of exposure to the pathogen. Herpes rash appear in painful, itchy and red blisters that appear in clusters. Molluscum Contagiosum rash is flesh colored bumps with waxy center.
Most non-infectious cases of genital rash are due to allergy or contact dermatitis and psoriasis. Diaper rash is the most common cause of genital rash in babies due to colonization of yeast in the genital area. Other common causes include:
If rash is due to sexually transmitted diseases; your doctor may advise few tests to confirm the etiological agent. Besides taking appropriate antibiotics or antiviral agent, it is highly recommended to follow these simple tips as well:
In situations when you are experiencing genital rash due to non-infectious reasons; such as allergy or contact dermatitis, your doctor will advise you appropriate medications (anti-allergy ointments and topical steroids). Besides, following these tips can also help in reducing the intensity of symptoms:
1. Butler, S. M., Smith, N. K., Collazo, E., Caltabiano, L., & Herbenick, D. (2015). Pubic Hair Preferences, Reasons for Removal, and Associated Genital Symptoms: Comparisons Between Men and Women. The journal of sexual medicine, 12(1), 48-58.
2. Erdmann, N., Hewitt, B. A., Atkinson, T. P., & Van Wagoner, N. (2015, September). Disseminated Primary Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infection in a 22-Year-Old male. In Open forum infectious diseases (Vol. 2, No. 3, p. ofv092). Oxford University Press.
3. Harper, J., & Zirwas, M. (2015). Allergic Contact Dermatitis of the Vagina and Perineum: Causes, Incidence of, and Differentiating Factors. Clinical obstetrics and gynecology, 58(1), 153-157.