and Treating White Spots on the Glans: A Guide

Treatment for white spots on the glans penis?

I previously underwent a circumcision and noticed that the color of my glans was relatively light, appearing almost grayish-white when not engorged.
However, a few years later, the color on the left side of the glans and the urethral opening began to darken, resembling the typical deep brown color of a glans, while a large portion still remained light.
Initially, I thought that my glans was naturally lighter and that the darker areas were abnormal.
After consulting a doctor, I was informed that I have leukoplakia, and that the originally lighter areas were the problematic ones.
I was prescribed a topical ointment to apply twice daily, but after more than two months of use, there hasn't been much change.
Dr.
Wu, could it be possible that the darker areas are the ones that need treatment? If it is indeed leukoplakia, I read online that treatment can take a long time; how long is the typical treatment duration?

Xiao Zhong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/12

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Without actually seeing the lesion, it is impossible to make a definitive diagnosis.
If it is causing significant distress, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Reply Date: 2016/10/12

More Info

Understanding and treating white spots on the glans can be a complex issue, particularly when it involves changes in pigmentation and the diagnosis of conditions like vitiligo (白斑症). Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a change in color on your glans, with some areas appearing lighter and others darker. This can understandably be concerning, especially after a history of circumcision.

Firstly, it’s important to clarify what vitiligo is. Vitiligo is a skin condition characterized by patches of skin losing their pigment. This occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color), are destroyed or stop functioning. The areas affected by vitiligo can appear lighter than the surrounding skin, which may explain the lighter color you observed on your glans.

In your case, the doctor’s diagnosis of vitiligo suggests that the lighter areas are indeed the ones that are affected, while the darker areas may represent normal pigmentation. It is not uncommon for patients to feel confused about the appearance of their skin, especially when there are contrasting colors involved. The treatment for vitiligo typically involves topical corticosteroids or other medications aimed at repigmenting the skin, and it can take time to see results. The duration of treatment can vary significantly from person to person, and while some may see improvement in a few months, others might require longer treatment periods.

You mentioned that you have been using the prescribed ointment for over two months without noticeable changes. It’s important to remember that treatment for vitiligo can be a slow process, and patience is often required. However, if you are not seeing any improvement, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may consider adjusting your treatment plan or exploring other options, such as phototherapy, which involves exposing the skin to ultraviolet light to stimulate repigmentation.

Regarding your concern about whether the darker areas require treatment, it’s crucial to rely on your healthcare provider’s expertise. They have the training and experience to assess your condition accurately. If there is any doubt or if you feel that the darker areas are problematic, do not hesitate to discuss this with your doctor. They may perform further evaluations or tests to ensure that there are no other underlying conditions contributing to the changes in pigmentation.

In addition to medical treatment, it’s also essential to protect your skin from sun exposure, as UV rays can exacerbate pigmentation issues. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen on the affected areas can help prevent further lightening of the skin and protect it from potential damage.

In summary, understanding and treating white spots on the glans, particularly in the context of vitiligo, requires a comprehensive approach. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s recommendations, be patient with the treatment process, and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or changes you observe. If you feel uncertain about your diagnosis or treatment, seeking a second opinion from a dermatologist who specializes in pigmentation disorders may provide additional insights and options for management.

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