Purple Bump at Corner of Mouth: Is It a Sign of Warts?

There is a purple protrusion at the corner of the mouth?

I have a purple bump at the corner of my mouth.
About two weeks ago, I performed oral sex on someone.
Could this be a wart? It feels slightly harder than my lip.

Xiao Mei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/20

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

No lesions were observed, and it is not possible to determine the issue.
If you are very concerned, please seek medical attention promptly.

Reply Date: 2020/05/20

More Info

The appearance of a purple bump at the corner of your mouth can be concerning, especially following a recent sexual encounter. While it is understandable to worry about the possibility of warts, particularly genital warts (caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV), it is essential to consider other potential causes as well.

Firstly, the bump you are describing could be a variety of things. Common possibilities include:
1. Mucoceles: These are fluid-filled cysts that can occur in the mouth, often resulting from trauma or blockage of a salivary gland. They are typically painless and can appear as soft, bluish bumps.

2. Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that can appear on the lips and inside the mouth. They are sebaceous glands that are visible due to their location and are not a cause for concern.

3. Oral Warts: If the bump is indeed a wart, it could be caused by HPV. Oral warts can appear as small, fleshy growths and may be hard to the touch. They can develop in the mouth or around the lips, especially after oral sexual contact with an infected partner.

4. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): If the bump is painful or associated with other symptoms like itching or burning, it could be a herpes lesion. Oral herpes typically presents as blisters or sores around the mouth.

5. Other Lesions: There are other conditions, such as fibromas or even oral cancers, that can present as bumps in the mouth. These are less common but should be considered, especially if the lesion persists or changes.

Given that the bump has been present for about two weeks, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional, particularly an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or a dermatologist, can provide a thorough examination and may perform a biopsy if necessary to determine the exact nature of the bump.

In terms of your concern about it being a sign of warts, it is crucial to remember that not all bumps or lesions in the mouth are warts. If it is indeed a wart, treatment options are available, including topical treatments, cryotherapy, or surgical removal, depending on the size and location of the wart.

Additionally, if you have had unprotected oral sex, it is wise to get tested for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HPV, to ensure your overall health and the health of your partners. Regular check-ups and open communication with partners about sexual health are essential in preventing the spread of STIs.

In summary, while the purple bump at the corner of your mouth could potentially be a wart, it is essential to have it evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.

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