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.