Small Bumps on the Penis: HPV and Treatment Options

Small growths on the penis?

In mid-May, my girlfriend was diagnosed with genital warts.
At that time, I also went to a urologist for a sexually transmitted infection screening, and everything came back normal.
However, since genital warts cannot be detected through blood tests, I carefully examined my penis.
Excluding pearly penile papules and Fordyce spots, I found a small white bump next to the frenulum on the glans.
It is a single bump, not very large, with a height resembling a small polyp, less than 0.5 mm.
The texture is somewhat firm, and the outer layer feels like a thin membrane covering the white area.
When slightly touched or pressed, the white bump turns a light pink color, but nothing can be expressed from it, and it is completely painless, itchless, and has not bled.
It has been over two months now, and I have recorded that it has not increased in size.
Since I did not pay much attention to my penis before, I am unsure how long this small bump has been present.
Therefore, I would like to ask the physician the following questions: 1.
What is the likelihood that this small bump is genital warts? 2.
Generally, how quickly do genital warts grow once lesions start to appear? (For example, if lesions begin to appear, will they rapidly increase in size within a week?) 3.
If removal is necessary, can it be done through an outpatient procedure? Thank you very much for your assistance with these questions.

cosmos, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/29

Dr. Cai Zhuorong reply Urology

1.
Is it highly likely that this small bump is cauliflower? A: It is not possible to determine the likelihood based on the description provided.

2.
How quickly does cauliflower typically grow once lesions start to appear? (For example, if lesions begin to appear, will they rapidly increase in size within a week?) A: It varies by individual case.

3.
Can it be removed through an outpatient procedure? A: Yes, the surgery does not require hospitalization.

Reply Date: 2020/07/29

More Info

When it comes to understanding small bumps on the penis, particularly in the context of HPV (human papillomavirus) and potential treatment options, there are several important factors to consider. Based on your description, it sounds like you have a small, hard, white bump located near the frenulum of the penis. Here’s a detailed response to your questions:
1. Is this small bump likely to be genital warts (condyloma)?
The characteristics of the bump you described—small, hard, white, and not painful—could potentially be consistent with a variety of conditions, including genital warts caused by HPV. However, it is important to note that not all bumps in the genital area are warts. Other possibilities include pearly penile papules, which are normal anatomical variations, or other benign conditions such as sebaceous cysts or fibromas. The fact that the bump has not changed in size over two months and is asymptomatic (not painful or itchy) may suggest that it is less likely to be an aggressive lesion like genital warts, which typically can grow and change more rapidly.

2. How quickly do genital warts grow once they appear?
Genital warts can vary significantly in their growth patterns. Some individuals may notice that warts appear and grow rapidly within weeks, while others may have warts that remain small and stable for a long time. In general, if warts are going to grow, they may do so within a few weeks to months after initial infection. However, the rate of growth can be influenced by the individual's immune response and other factors. It's also worth noting that many HPV infections are asymptomatic and may resolve on their own without treatment.

3. Can this bump be removed in an outpatient procedure?
If you or your healthcare provider determine that the bump is concerning or if it is diagnosed as genital warts, there are several treatment options available. These can often be performed in an outpatient setting. Common methods for removing genital warts include cryotherapy (freezing the wart), electrosurgery (burning the wart), laser treatment, or topical treatments that can be applied directly to the wart. The choice of treatment depends on the size, number, and location of the warts, as well as patient preference and the healthcare provider's recommendation.

In conclusion, while the bump you described could potentially be genital warts, it is essential to have a healthcare professional evaluate it for an accurate diagnosis. If you have concerns about HPV or the possibility of genital warts, consider scheduling an appointment with a urologist or dermatologist who specializes in sexually transmitted infections. They can provide a thorough examination, possibly perform a biopsy if necessary, and discuss appropriate treatment options tailored to your situation. Additionally, practicing safe sex and maintaining open communication with your partner about sexual health can help manage the risks associated with HPV and other sexually transmitted infections.

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