The evaluation of genital sores begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in males with genital sores may include:

• Penile discharge
• Testicular swelling
• Inguinal lymphadenitis:
• Swollen and tender lymph glands in the groin
• Penile sore
• Rash
• Genital warts
• Joint swelling (rare)

Physical findings in females with genital sores may include:

• Vaginal discharge
• Vaginal redness
• Inguinal lymphadenitis:
• Swollen and tender lymph glands in the groin
• Vaginal sores
• Rash
• Genital warts
• Joint swelling (rare)

Tests are usually necessary to evaluate genital sores.

Tests that may be used to evaluate genital sores include:

• Gonorrhea testing
• Chlamydia testing
• Herpes genitalis testing
• PAP smear
• HIV testing
• HPV testing
• Syphilis testing

For more information:

• Herpes genitalis evaluation
• Sexually transmitted disease evaluation
• Chancroid evaluation
• Lymphogranuloma venereum evaluation
• Syphilis evaluation