Pearly Penile Papules: Symptoms and Concerns

Q: Pearly Penile Papules: Symptoms and Concerns

Hello： If there is sexual activity, it may be necessary to seek medical attention from a urologist. <br>As for penile cancer, it typically presents as a lump that increases in size, and medical evaluation is required at that point. <br>Wishing you good health.

Pearly penile papules?

Hello, doctor.
About two weeks ago, I noticed that there are 4-5 small granulation tissue growths on both sides of the frenulum.
Sometimes it itches (I'm not sure if it's due to this or just general foreskin itchiness).
Recently, I've observed that they haven't increased in size.
Could this be a symptom of penile cancer?

kc, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/14

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If there is sexual activity, it may be necessary to seek medical attention from a urologist.
As for penile cancer, it typically presents as a lump that increases in size, and medical evaluation is required at that point.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/10/14

More Info

Pearly penile papules (PPP) are small, benign growths that typically appear around the corona of the glans penis. They are often mistaken for other conditions, leading to unnecessary concern, especially regarding the risk of penile cancer. It's important to understand that PPP is a normal anatomical variant and is not associated with any disease or health risk, including cancer.

Symptoms and Characteristics of Pearly Penile Papules
1. Appearance: PPP usually presents as small, dome-shaped, skin-colored or slightly white papules. They are typically arranged in one or two rows around the glans and can vary in number from a few to several dozen.

2. Location: They are most commonly found on the corona of the glans penis, which is the ridge where the glans meets the shaft of the penis. They do not usually appear on the shaft or scrotum.

3. Itching or Discomfort: While PPP themselves are not itchy, the surrounding skin may become irritated due to various factors such as hygiene, friction, or other skin conditions. If you are experiencing itching, it may be due to irritation rather than the papules themselves.

4. No Change in Size: As you mentioned, the papules have not changed in size, which is a good sign. PPP typically remain stable and do not grow larger or change in appearance over time.

Concerns Regarding Penile Cancer
It's understandable to be concerned about the possibility of penile cancer, especially when noticing new growths. However, PPP is not a precursor to cancer and does not increase the risk of developing penile cancer. Penile cancer is rare and usually presents with different symptoms, such as:
- A lump or growth on the penis that may be painful or bleed.

- Changes in the skin, such as a sore that does not heal.

- Unusual discharge or changes in color.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

Recommendations
1. Consult a Specialist: Since you are experiencing symptoms like itching and have concerns about the papules, it would be wise to consult a dermatologist or a urologist. They can provide a definitive diagnosis and reassurance.

2. Hygiene: Maintain good hygiene to prevent irritation. Gently clean the area with mild soap and water, and avoid harsh soaps or irritants.

3. Avoid Irritation: If you notice that certain activities (like sexual activity or tight clothing) exacerbate the itching, consider modifying these behaviors until you have a clearer understanding of the cause.

4. Monitoring: Keep an eye on the papules. If they change in size, color, or if you develop new symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

5. Reassurance: Remember that PPP is a common condition and is not harmful. Many men have them, and they often go unnoticed.

In conclusion, while it is natural to be concerned about any new growths on your body, pearly penile papules are generally harmless and not associated with penile cancer. However, if you have any doubts or if your symptoms persist, seeking medical advice is always the best course of action.

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