Pearly Penile Papules: What You Need to Know

Q: Pearly Penile Papules: What You Need to Know

Hello： The skin naturally has various differences, so there is no need to worry unless there is an increase in size or number. <br>If you are concerned, you can have a check-up at a major hospital's urology department, and that will put your mind at ease. <br>Wishing you good hea

There are some small white spots on the foreskin?

Hello Doctor, I consulted a urologist regarding whether I should undergo circumcision.
The doctor said it wasn't necessary since I can retract my foreskin, but I have a little smegma that I should clean better.
There is also a small bump on my penis that the doctor said is just a sebaceous gland and advised me not to worry too much.

While showering tonight, I accidentally noticed that when I pulled back the foreskin, there were a group of white spots that became more visible.
They resemble the spots I previously saw on the sides of my lips, which made me think I might have something unusual, so I consulted a dermatologist.
The dermatologist mentioned that these are likely Fordyce spots, which I had not noticed before until I bit my lip.
He said that unless I find them unsightly, I don't need to do anything about them, including laser treatment.
I would like to ask if it's possible to have similar spots on the outer edge of the inner foreskin, as they look very much alike.
I have not engaged in sexual intercourse, but I do masturbate, and I was initially worried it might be genital warts; however, after looking at pictures, it doesn't seem to match.

Can Fordyce spots also appear on the inner rim of the foreskin? If so, should I just leave them alone like the ones on my lips? Or should I consider seeing a urologist again for further evaluation? However, two weeks ago, when I had the doctor examine it, he didn't mention any issues.

H, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/13

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: The skin naturally has various differences, so there is no need to worry unless there is an increase in size or number.
If you are concerned, you can have a check-up at a major hospital's urology department, and that will put your mind at ease.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/05/13

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the small white bumps you have noticed on your penis, which you believe may resemble pearly penile papules (PPP). It's understandable to feel anxious about any changes in your body, especially in such a sensitive area. Let’s clarify what pearly penile papules are and address your concerns.

Pearly penile papules are small, dome-shaped, white or flesh-colored bumps that typically appear around the corona (the ridge) of the glans (the head) of the penis. They are a normal anatomical variant and are not a sexually transmitted infection or a sign of any disease. They are harmless and do not require treatment unless they cause psychological distress or cosmetic concerns. The presence of these papules is quite common, affecting a significant portion of the male population, and they are often mistaken for other conditions, such as genital warts.

Regarding your observation of similar bumps on your lips, it’s important to note that the skin in different areas of the body can exhibit similar benign conditions. The bumps on your lips could be sebaceous glands or Fordyce spots, which are also harmless and common. These spots can appear on various mucosal surfaces, including the lips and the genital area, and like PPP, they do not require treatment unless they are bothersome.

You mentioned that your urologist indicated that circumcision was not necessary and that you should maintain good hygiene. This is sound advice. Regular cleaning of the area can help prevent the buildup of smegma, which is a combination of dead skin cells and oils that can accumulate under the foreskin. If you notice any changes in the appearance of the bumps, such as increased size, color change, or discomfort, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider.

As for your concerns about the bumps being a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) like genital warts, it’s reassuring that you have not engaged in sexual intercourse. Genital warts typically have a different appearance and texture compared to pearly penile papules. They may appear as soft, fleshy growths that can be raised or flat, and they often cluster together. If you remain uncertain or if any new symptoms arise, such as itching, burning, or unusual discharge, it would be wise to consult a urologist or dermatologist for a thorough examination.

In summary, pearly penile papules and Fordyce spots are benign conditions that do not pose any health risks. If you are still feeling anxious about your symptoms or if you have further questions, I encourage you to seek a second opinion from a urologist. They can provide reassurance and help you understand your body better. Remember, it’s always best to address any health concerns directly with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on a physical examination.

Take care, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need further clarification.

Best regards.

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