Paraffinoma and ulcer of the external genitalia after self-injection of vaseline

Abstract

We present a 42-year-old circumcised man with a 10-cm firm, irregular penile mass associated with multiple penile ulcers, voiding difficulty, and erectile dysfunction. He reluctantly admitted that 8 months previously, he had multiple mineral-oil (vaseline) self-injections to the penis, for penile enlargement purposes. Histopathological examination revealed the condition was consistent with mineral-oil granuloma (paraffinoma). The patient did not accept surgical intervention; therefore, we performed local therapy (intralesional triamcinolone) and hot-water baths. Paraffinoma results from mineral-oil injections. Such injections are rare; however, they are still being performed in some countries in Eastern Europe and the Far East such as Korea. Increased physician and public awareness are needed for prevention and treatment of complications of this physically and psychologically debilitating and destructive problem.