FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What is the most likely diagnosis for a 24-year-old man with vesicles and burning erosions on the shaft of his penis?

1. Chancroid

2. Herpes simplex

3. Syphilis

4. Gonorrhea

The correct answer is: Herpes simplex

The most likely diagnosis for a 24-year-old man presenting with vesicles and burning erosions on the shaft of his penis is herpes simplex. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) typically causes painful, vesicular lesions that can appear in localized areas such as the genital region. The vesicles are often filled with fluid and can rupture to form painful erosions, which aligns with the symptoms described. In the case of herpes simplex, the feeling of burning, along with the vesicular rash, is a hallmark of an outbreak. The lesions are often recurrent, and patients may experience prodromal symptoms such as tingling or itching prior to the appearance of these vesicles. This pattern of lesions is quite characteristic, making herpes simplex a fitting diagnosis. While chancroid, syphilis, and gonorrhea are also sexually transmitted infections, they present differently. Chancroid typically presents with painful ulcers rather than vesicles. Syphilis often begins with a single painless sore (chancre) and progresses to secondary lesions that do not resemble the vesicular nature of herpes. Gonorrhea, on the other hand, may cause urethral discharge and is less likely to result in vesicular lesions, as it primarily affects the urethra and/or