Penile Issues: From Phimosis to Inflammation and Lumps

The foreskin is cracked and cannot retract over the glans, and there is also a lump present?

Hello doctor, a few months ago my penis was completely normal, just with a slightly long foreskin that wouldn't automatically retract to expose the glans during an erection, but I could manually push it down for cleaning.
I could also awkwardly hold the glans with a masturbation sleeve, but it still wouldn't stay in place.
Recently, I suspect I have developed some inflammation; my foreskin became swollen at that time, but it later subsided.
However, this resulted in some cracks at the opening of the foreskin, and it seems to be getting looser, making it difficult to hold the glans.
The foreskin also appears to have lengthened, and during the inflammation, there were some ulcerations.
Afterward, I frequently masturbated and noticed some worm-like lumps appearing, which I found online might be called sclerosing lymphangitis.
These lumps disappear after a few days without masturbation, but they reappear when I masturbate again.
Now, I continue to masturbate daily, and I am still a virgin.
Could this series of issues be due to inflammation? Should I consider getting a circumcision? What exactly are these lumps, and is it true that they will resolve after a period of abstaining from masturbation? However, since they recur with masturbation, that doesn't seem like a solution.
Is there also a possibility of penile cancer? Thank you, doctor, for your response.

Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/26

Dr. Du Mingyi reply Urology

For recurrent inflammation, it is still recommended to undergo circumcision.
The latest method is the use of a circumcision device, which allows for a quick and aesthetically pleasing procedure with minimal bleeding.
The surgery time is extremely short, pain is mild, and recovery is fast.

Reply Date: 2020/02/26

More Info

It's important to address your concerns regarding penile issues, particularly phimosis, inflammation, and the presence of lumps. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a combination of symptoms that could be related to several underlying conditions.
Phimosis, which is the inability to retract the foreskin over the glans (head) of the penis, can be a normal condition in younger males but may require attention if it leads to complications. In your case, it appears that the foreskin has become more problematic due to inflammation and possible injury. The inflammation you mentioned, characterized by swelling and cracking of the foreskin, could be due to a variety of factors, including irritation from friction during masturbation, infections, or even a skin condition such as balanitis.

The "worm-like" lumps you described could be indicative of lymphangitis, which is inflammation of the lymphatic vessels. This condition can occur due to trauma or infection and may present as tender, swollen areas along the shaft of the penis. If these lumps appear after masturbation and resolve when you abstain, it suggests that friction or irritation may be a contributing factor.
It's crucial to consider the hygiene aspect as well. If the foreskin is not retracted regularly, it can lead to the accumulation of smegma (a combination of dead skin cells and oils), which can irritate the skin and lead to inflammation. Maintaining proper hygiene by gently retracting the foreskin and cleaning the area can help prevent further irritation and inflammation.

Regarding your question about circumcision, this is a common procedure for individuals with persistent phimosis or recurrent infections. Circumcision can alleviate the symptoms associated with phimosis and reduce the risk of future complications. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms in detail, as they can provide a thorough examination and recommend the best course of action tailored to your specific situation.

As for the concern about penile cancer, while it is a rare condition, chronic inflammation and irritation can increase the risk of certain skin changes. Regular monitoring of any changes in the skin of the penis is advisable. If you notice any persistent lumps, sores, or changes in color, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, your symptoms suggest a combination of phimosis, possible inflammation, and irritation from masturbation. Maintaining proper hygiene, reducing friction during sexual activities, and consulting a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation are essential steps. If necessary, they may recommend circumcision or other treatments to address your concerns effectively. Remember, it's always better to seek professional advice when dealing with health issues, especially those related to sensitive areas of the body.

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