Concerns About Unusual Growth on the Glans: What You Should Know - Urology

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A bit worried?


Hello doctor, I am a high school sophomore and I have a habit of masturbating.
Sometimes I use lubricant, and after I finish, I either rinse off or just wipe with tissue.
Recently, I noticed a small foreign object at the meatus (the opening of the glans penis).
It's not very big and you have to look closely to see it.
The color is a bit dark, and there is only one.
I looked it up online and found that it could be a pearly penile papule, but the information I found said there should be a row of them in the coronal sulcus, and I only have one.
I'm worried it might be genital warts.
What could this condition be? (I have no sexual experience and have never been to a sauna.)

Xiao Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/16

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology


Hello, based on what you mentioned, the likelihood of cauliflower is low.
Also, did you possibly select the wrong gender? This has caused some confusion in my response.
If there is something growing at the urethral opening, you can observe it for a few days.
If you are still concerned, please visit a dermatologist or urologist for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2016/09/16

More Info


When it comes to unusual growths on the glans, such as the one you described, it is important to approach the situation with caution and seek professional medical advice. The growth you are noticing could be a variety of things, and while it may be concerning, many conditions are benign and treatable.

Firstly, let's discuss what you might be experiencing. The glans, or the head of the penis, can develop various types of growths, including cysts, pearly penile papules, or even warts. Pearly penile papules are small, dome-shaped bumps that are typically white or skin-colored and are considered a normal anatomical variant. They are harmless and do not require treatment. They usually appear in rows around the corona of the glans.

On the other hand, genital warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can also appear as small growths on the genital area. These warts can vary in size and may appear as single or multiple lesions. Given your description of a single dark-colored growth, it is less likely to be genital warts, especially since you mentioned you have no sexual experience or exposure to environments like saunas where such infections might be contracted.

Another possibility is a sebaceous cyst, which can occur when a sebaceous gland becomes blocked. These cysts are typically painless and can appear as small lumps under the skin. They are generally harmless but can become infected or inflamed.

It is also worth mentioning that any new growth, especially if it changes in appearance, color, or size, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Conditions like molluscum contagiosum, a viral infection that causes small, raised, pearl-like bumps, could also be a consideration, although they typically present differently.

You expressed concern about the possibility of it being a condyloma (genital wart) or a more serious condition. While it is understandable to feel anxious about these possibilities, it is crucial to remember that self-diagnosis through online research can often lead to unnecessary worry. The best course of action is to schedule an appointment with a urologist or a dermatologist who specializes in genital health. They can provide a thorough examination and, if necessary, perform tests to determine the nature of the growth.

In the meantime, it is advisable to maintain good hygiene practices. If you are using lubricants, ensure they are appropriate for genital use and avoid any products that may cause irritation. Regularly washing the area with mild soap and water can help prevent infections.

In summary, while the growth you are experiencing could be benign, it is essential to have it evaluated by a medical professional to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate guidance. Remember that early intervention is key in managing any health concerns effectively. Don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for peace of mind and proper care.

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