Deciphering venereal dermatological trends: Male genital health across ages

Objectives A significant portion of cases in the skin OPD (outpatient department) involves venereal dermatoses in males. It is essential to thoroughly comprehend the patterns of venereal dermatoses to enhance clinical diagnosis and treatment approaches. To analyze the pattern of venereal dermatoses in males of different age groups in our part of the country. Material and Methods A descriptive (observational) study was conducted, which included all male patients with genital dermatoses visiting the outpatient department of Skin and Venereal Disease and referred cases from the Urology department in a tertiary care center in North India over 12 months. A thorough history and general physical examination were done. Tzanck smear, Gram staining, KOH (potassium hydroxide test), HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) serology, and skin biopsy were performed as required. Results A total of 310 cases of venereal dermatoses were enrolled in the study. The mean age of patients presenting was 32.21 ± 9.53 years. 237 (76.45%) were married, and 73 (23.55%) were unmarried. 297 (95.81%) cases of venereal dermatoses were heterosexual, 1 (0.32%) case was not sexually active, 6 (1.94%) cases were bisexual, and 6 (1.94%) were homosexual. 126 (40.65%) cases were of genital warts, which was the most common venereal dermatoses, followed by herpes genitalis (29.68%) and molluscum contagiosum (27.10%). The penis was the most common site involved in 275 (88.70%) cases, and 285 (91.93%) patients had lesions exclusively on genitalia. Conclusion Understanding the various male genital dermatoses across age groups is crucial for effective clinical management, which will ultimately improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of venereal dermatoses in the population.