Genital sores (male)

Alternative names:

sores - on the genitals (male)

Definition:

Any sore or lesion that appears 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). Venereal warts, syphilis, genital herpes, chancroid, molluscum contagiosum and granuloma inguinale are STDs that cause visible and fairly classic appearing lesions. Non-sexually transmitted diseases may also produce lesions on the genitalia.

Because genital lesions (genital sores) often adversely affect a person's self image, many do not seek proper medical care. These lesions may be due to a malignancy or to a sexually transmitted disease and in every case should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Itching, painful urination, or painful sexual intercourse often accompany genital lesions (singular or multiple) which may be limited to the genitalia or may also show up elsewhere on the body.

Common causes:

• tinea cruris (jock itch)
• urticaria (allergic reaction)
• viral skin infections (including genital warts)
• syphilis, primary
• genital herpes simplex
• traumatic injury
• chancroid
• granuloma inguinale
• molluscum contagiosum

Note: There may be other causes of genital sores on a man or boy. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for genital sores, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.