Dr Aaron Hughes
Male Genital Specialist Dermatologist

Dr Hughes is a consultant Dermatologsit who specialises in male genital rashes. Dr Hughes undertook additional training in male genital skin dermatology at UCLH, a world renowned centre for male genital skin disease. He has since set up a specialist clinic for these patients at the Royal Free Hospital and continues to hold an honorary contract with UCLH.

 

What is male genital dermatology?

 

Male genital dermatology is any skin condition that affects the male genitalia (penis, scrotum, groin or around the anus). Male genital rashes can be conditions that just affect the genitalia (such as lichen sclerosus), conditions that affect the genitals together with other parts of the body (such as psoriasis or lichen planus) or sexually transmitted infections. 

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 Why see a male genital dermatologist?

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All dermatologists are trained in male genital dermatology, but most dermatologists only have brief training in this area. A specialist male genital dermatologist has extensive training in diagnosing and treating these rashes. This allows Dr Hughes to pick up more subtle signs and create a more tailored treatment plan. This is important, because undiagnosed genital skin conditions can lead to pain, scarring and rarely penile cancer.  

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What are the most common conditions you see?

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The most common condition I see is lichen sclerosus, which is a chronic inflammatory skin condition of the penile head and foreskin. This is often under-diagnosed and can have a huge impact on well being, sexual function and long term health. Psoriasis commonly affects the genitalia and some patients only have psoriasis on the genitalia. 

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What sort of treatments do you offer?

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Most male genital rashes can be diagnosed with close questioning and examination. Following a diagnosis, the treatment will be based on your symptoms and skin condition. Most inflammatory rashes can be treated with specific medicated creams, moisturisers and soap substitutes.