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 penisFigure 2: Clinical image of the eight-legged tickFigure 3: Dermoscopic view of the tick (Heine delta 30 dermoscope, 10X)Declaration of patient consent The authors certify that they have obtained all appropriate patient consent forms. In the form the patient(s) has/have given his/her/their consent for his/her/their images and other clinical information to be reported in the journal. The patients understand that their names and initials will not be published and due efforts will be made to conceal their identity, but anonymity cannot be guaranteed. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.