Deer-Tick Tag on the Shaft of the Penis: An Unusual Presentation

A 24-year-old male presented with a molluscum contagiosum-like growth on the penile shaft [Figure 1], revealing a tick bite on examination [Figure 2]. Dermoscopy showed a shiny mass with depressions, which was identified as a deer tick [Figure 3]. This case underscores the underreporting of tick bites in India despite their occurrence. Tick bites outside India have led to initial symptoms such as nausea, headache, and severe complications. Missed patient history complicates diagnosis. The rarity of such cases in the reported area emphasizes the potential for missed diagnoses. In addition, in an eastern Uttar Pradesh zone endemic for Japanese Encephalitis, similar presentations raise suspicions of tick-related viral infections. Timely detection and treatment are vital in preventing later multisystem complications.[1]

Figure 1.

A 24-year-old male presented with a soft shiny mass to the shaft of the penis

Figure 2.

Clinical image of the eight-legged tick

Figure 3.

Dermoscopic view of the tick (Heine delta 30 dermoscope, 10X)

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Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest.

Funding Statement

Nil.