Erythroplasia of Queyrat

• Causes, incidence, and risk factors

  The condition is typically found in men who have not had the foreskin of the penis surgically removed (circumcision).

• Symptoms

  The main symptoms are a red rash and irritation on the tip of the penis.

• Treatment

  Erythroplasia of Queyrat is usually treated with creams such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil, which are used for several weeks to months. It does not respond to anti-inflammatory creams, such as topical steroids.

  This condition is sometimes treated with medicines taken by mouth, including chemotherapy drugs and medicines that change the body's immune response.

  More aggressive forms of the disease may require surgery, usually microscopic shaving (Mohs' surgery).

• References

  Pettaway CA, Lynch DF Jr, Davis JW. Tumors of the Penis. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Sauders Elsevier; 2007: chap 31.

  Premalignant and Malignant Nonmelanoma Skin Tumors. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009: chap 21.

Review Date: 12/11/2009

Reviewed By: Michael Lehrer, MD, Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network; Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.