A persistent penile plaque that does not respond to therapy should be reevaluated periodically to rule out squamous cell carcinoma in situ. Dermatitis Contact dermatitis of the genitalia can be divided into irritant and allergic forms. Theoretically, all persons are susceptible to irritant contact dermatitis. It may develop from chronic use of certain soaps, disinfectants, or antiseptic solutions. The latter often are used on the genitalia in an attempt to prevent STDs.
Patients typically complain of itching on the distal shaft of the penis.
Clinically, they have ill-defined erythematous, scaly patches. Patients with a history of atopic dermatitis are predisposed to develop irritant contact dermatitis of the scrotum. They generally present with erythema and mild lichenification. Discontinuing the offending medication and treating with a low-potency corticosteroid cream for 5 to 7 days are all that is needed. Allergic contact dermatitis is also common.