Erythroplasia of Queyrat
Definition
Erythroplasia of Queyrat is an early form of skin cancer found on the penis. The cancer is called squamous cell carcinoma in situ.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The condition is most often seen in men who have not been circumcised. It is linked to the human papilloma virus (HPV).
Symptoms
The main symptoms are a red rash and irritation on the tip of the penis.
Signs and tests
The health care provider will examine the penis to diagnose the condtion.
Treatment
Treatment may include:
- Skin creams such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil. These creams are used for several weeks to months
- Anti-inflammatory (steroid) creams, if other medicines do not work
If skin creams do not work, your doctor may recommend other treatments such as:
- Mohs micrographic surgery
- Laser surgery
- Freezing the cancer cells (cryotherapy)
- Scraping away cancer cells and using electricity to kill any that remain (curettage and electrodesiccation)
References
Premalignant and malignant nonmelanoma skin tumors. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 21.
Cobb CW, Lawrence N. Bowen's disease and erythroplasia of Querat. n: Lebwohl MG, Heymann WR, Berth-Jones J, Coulson I, eds.Treatment of Skin Disease: Comprehensive Therapeutic Strategies. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2009.
Review Date:
11/20/2012
Reviewed By:
Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, David R. Eltz, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang.