Red Scrotum Syndrome

The Red Scrotum Syndrome is also known as Male Genital Bysaesthesia or Burning Scrotum Syndrome. It is a rare and chronic disease affecting males (yup, strangely, only males are affected) and typically runs a chronic course[1].

Most patients are over 60 years of age and fair-skinned. However, Red Scrotum Syndrome sometimes affects younger or darker-skinned men. They are usually otherwise healthy.

The Red Scrotum Syndrome is characterized by persistent redness of the anterior half of the scrotum that may involve the base of the penis. It is usually accompanied by a persistent itching or burning sensation and hyperalgesia (an increased sensitivity to pain). It is a chronic condition that is resistant to treatment and its cause is still unknown[2].

Some researchers think that the redness may sometimes arise as a consequence of long-term application of strong corticosteroid creams to genital tissue. If the problems occur on the facial area, it is called steroid rosacea.

Successful treatment may include oral doxycycline and steroid abstinence. If applied, the first improvement was noted within the first two weeks and complete resolution within 2 to 3 months.

[1] Wollina: Red scrotum syndrome in Journal of Dermatological Case Reports - 2011
[2] Fisher: The Red Scrotum Syndrome in Cutis - 1997