Scrotum angiokeratomas are an unsightly collection of blood blisters on a mans scrotum. Sometimes they are an indicator of a more serious condition, and sometimes they will intrude on ones sex life.
Angiokeratoma Identification
Along with many other men’s sexual health issues, Angiokeratomas can cause a disconnect in one's sex life, due to appearance, and other direct effects of these spots. Angiokeratomas are erythematous papules that are usually between 1-2 mm in diameter. Usually found along the thighs, abdomen, and scrotum, these spots can appear blue or red in color. Histologically speaking, they are derived from vessels with thin walls that occur in the superficial dermis. They have overlaying epidermal hyperplasia, which helps provide the characteristic coloring and appearance.
Condition Diagnosis
How an angiokeratoma is categorized greatly depends on its nature, whether it is systemic or localized. Localized forms generally appear as solitary or congenital forms on the legs, thighs, or buttock. In addition, localized scrotum and vulva forms can appear as scrotal blood blisters or as multiple, plaque like lesions. However, this disorder can also be classified as a systemic condition, commonly known as Fabry disease, a genetic disorder involving how lipids are processed in the body. This disease often occurs in male patients, and may or may not be present alongside scrotum blood blisters.
Related Conditions
Like many other men’s health concerns, angiokeratomas are not isolated issues. They often create the opportunity for the generation of additional concerns. Oftentimes, this condition is created by increased venous pressure. Other conditions that accompany this men’s health issue include spontaneous bleeding from the area, possibility of infection from wound opening, and this condition can be a preliminary factor to penile cancer.
Demographic Factors
Although no fatalities have been documented from this condition, the main concern of many physicians is excessive bleeding. The scrotum blood blisters can be ruptured during intercourse or if traumatized in another manner. This disease occurs predominantly in American and Japanese males, and few cases have been documented in African American males. In addition, this disease shows no signs of age discrimination.
Sexual Confidence
In addition to physical characteristics that are associated with this condition, one's sexual well-being can suffer, as well. In regard to sexual partners, other individuals may not be able to differentiate between this condition and other more severe health conditions, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). As a result, partners may shy away from sexual encounters with individuals whom have this condition.
Not to mention, the men who have this condition may be increasingly self-conscious of the appearance of their genitals. The possibility of these papules, or scrotum blood blisters, opening during intercourse can be enough to make a man avoid intercourse completely. This can lead to a feeling of inadequacy that can greatly affect one's self-confidence.
Treatment Options
In order to avoid mishaps and development of a more serious, individuals have many treatment options that may be considered. When a limited number of lesions exist, excision performed under local anesthesia may be a viable option. In addition, cryotherapy with nitrogen liquid, diffusion with electrocautery, resolution by laser, and injections with sclerotherapy are also other options for the treatment of an angiokeratoma.
In conclusion, an angiokeratoma can be both physically and emotionally debilitating for individuals. While the general characteristics of this condition may be daunting, treatment is possible for most individuals.
