White Spots on the Glans: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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There is a white patch on the glans penis?


Hello Doctor, I recently noticed a white patch on the left side of my glans that appeared suddenly over the past three to five days.
It is approximately 0.6 cm away from the urethral opening and about the size of a green bean (around 0.3 cm).
It is not painful or itchy, and there are no scales.
I have not engaged in any (high-risk) sexual behavior.
The white patch is quite smooth, without any indentation or protrusion; it simply looks like a white area on normal skin.
I had a circumcision due to balanitis in November 2019.
I clean the area by letting the lather from body wash slide over it during showers and rinsing with water.
I am concerned that this white patch could be a leukoplakia or some potentially malignant tissue.
Could you please advise what this white patch might be? Thank you.

A Di, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/26

Dr. Wu Shuyu reply Urology


Outpatient evaluation is possible.

Reply Date: 2020/09/26

More Info


Understanding white spots on the glans can be a source of concern for many individuals, especially when they appear suddenly and without accompanying symptoms such as pain or itching. In your case, the presence of a smooth, white spot on the glans penis, measuring approximately 0.3 cm and located about 0.6 cm from the urethral opening, raises several possibilities.

Firstly, it is important to note that the glans penis can exhibit various benign conditions that may present as white spots. One common cause is Fordyce spots, which are small, painless, pale bumps that are actually sebaceous glands without hair follicles. They are completely normal and harmless, often becoming more noticeable with age or changes in skin texture.

Another possibility is Pearly Penile Papules, which are small, white or skin-colored bumps that typically appear around the corona of the glans. These are also benign and do not require treatment. They are a normal anatomical variant and are not associated with any disease or infection.

Lichen sclerosus is another condition that can cause white patches on the genital area. This is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can lead to white, shiny patches. While it can be asymptomatic, it may sometimes cause discomfort or changes in skin texture. It is more common in uncircumcised males but can occur in circumcised individuals as well.

In some cases, vitiligo, a skin condition characterized by loss of pigmentation, can also manifest as white patches on the skin, including the genital area. This condition is generally harmless and is due to the loss of melanin-producing cells.

While the absence of pain, itching, or other symptoms is reassuring, it is crucial to consider the possibility of more serious conditions such as lichen planus or even precancerous lesions, especially if there are changes in the texture or appearance of the spot over time. However, these conditions are less common and typically present with additional symptoms.

Given your history of circumcision due to balanitis (inflammation of the glans), it is also essential to maintain proper hygiene to prevent any recurrence of infections. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient, and avoiding irritants such as harsh soaps or lotions can help maintain skin health.

Since you mentioned concern about the possibility of a malignant transformation, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination. A dermatologist or urologist can provide a definitive diagnosis, often through visual inspection and, if necessary, a biopsy of the lesion to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while the white spot on your glans may be benign, it is always prudent to seek medical advice for any new or concerning changes in your body. Early evaluation can provide peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Remember, self-diagnosis can often lead to unnecessary anxiety, so professional guidance is key in these situations.

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