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

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.

Exams 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.

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