Summary about Disease
Erythroplasia of Queyrat is a type of squamous cell carcinoma in situ (a very early form of skin cancer) that affects the glans penis (head of the penis), prepuce (foreskin), or coronal sulcus (the groove behind the glans). It appears as a well-defined, red, velvety plaque. It's considered a premalignant condition, meaning it has the potential to develop into invasive squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated.
Symptoms
Well-defined, persistent, red, velvety, and shiny plaque on the glans penis, prepuce, or coronal sulcus.
The lesion may be slightly raised.
It is often asymptomatic (causing no symptoms) in its early stages.
In some cases, it can be itchy or mildly painful.
Bleeding can occur with minor trauma.
Causes
The exact cause isn't fully understood.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly HPV-16, is strongly implicated.
Poor hygiene.
Chronic irritation.
Uncircumcised status may increase risk.
Ultraviolet radiation exposure
Medicine Used
Topical Medications:
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) cream: A chemotherapy drug applied topically.
Imiquimod cream: An immune response modifier that stimulates the body's own immune system to attack the cancerous cells.
Surgical Options:
Circumcision: Removal of the foreskin.
Excision: Surgical removal of the lesion.
Laser ablation: Using a laser to destroy the abnormal tissue.
Cryotherapy: Freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT): A treatment that uses a photosensitizing drug and a specific wavelength of light to destroy cancerous cells.
Is Communicable
No, Erythroplasia of Queyrat itself is not directly communicable. However, HPV, which is a contributing factor in some cases, is a sexually transmitted infection.
Precautions
Practice good hygiene, including regular washing of the genital area.
If sexually active, practice safe sex to reduce the risk of HPV infection, including the use of condoms.
If uncircumcised, consider circumcision as a preventive measure.
Regular self-examination of the penis to detect any unusual changes.
Seek medical attention promptly if any suspicious lesions are noticed.
Avoid smoking, as smoking is a risk factor for squamous cell carcinoma.
How long does an outbreak last?
Erythroplasia of Queyrat is not an "outbreak" but rather a persistent lesion. Without treatment, the lesion will remain and may slowly progress to invasive squamous cell carcinoma. Treatment duration varies depending on the method used. Topical treatments may take several weeks, while surgical options provide more immediate results.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: A doctor will visually examine the lesion.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the lesion and examined under a microscope by a pathologist to confirm the diagnosis and rule out invasive cancer.
HPV Testing: Testing for the presence of HPV may be performed.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline can vary. The lesion typically starts as a small, red, velvety plaque. It may remain stable for months or even years, or it may slowly grow in size. It may or may not be itchy or painful. Without treatment, it can potentially progress to invasive squamous cell carcinoma over time.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent progression to invasive squamous cell carcinoma.
Regular follow-up appointments with a doctor are necessary to monitor for recurrence.
Patients should be educated about the importance of self-examination and reporting any new or changing lesions.
Treatment can affect sexual function and appearance; these possibilities should be discussed with a doctor before treatment.
Erythroplasia of Queyrat can recur even after successful treatment.