Genital Ulcers and Rash in a Male Patient

• Published in: American family physician Vol. 86; no. 8; pp. 763 - 764
• Main Authors: Fueyo-Casado, A., MD, Pedraz-Muñoz, J., MD, Muñoz, L. Campos, MD, López-Bran, E., MD, PhD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Leawood American Academy of Family Physicians 15-10-2012
• Subjects: Herpes viruses; HIV; Human immunodeficiency virus; Infections; Internal Medicine; Lymphatic system; Penis; Serology; Syphilis; Ulcers
• ISSN: 0002-838X

HIV transmission appears to be enhanced in the presence of the syphilitic chancre.5 For early secondary syphilis (less than one year after infection), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a single dose of intramuscular penicillin G benzathine (2.4 million units).6 Repeat serology should be performed at six and 12 months after treatment to confirm that it was successful. Herpes simplex virus infection is characterized by groups of painful vesicles in the genital area. Summary Table Condition Characteristics Behçet syndrome Recurrent, painful aphthous ulcers on the mouth or genitals; possible anterior and posterior uveitis Chancroid More painful, friable ulcerations with soft undermined edges and yellow-gray, purulent exudate; lymphadenopathy, usually unilateral Herpes simplex virus infection Groups of painful vesicles in the genital area; regional lymph nodes may be enlarged and tender Lymphogranuloma venereum Painless, shallow ulcerations that heal quickly; painful unilateral lymphadenopathy develops two to six weeks after infection Syphilis Painless chancre, lymphadenopathy, and an early rash Address correspondence to A. Fueyo-Casado, MD, at [e-mail].