Small Bumps on the Glans: When to See a Urologist

Q: Small Bumps on the Glans: When to See a Urologist

Hello： I personally recommend having a check-up at a major hospital. <br>If the lesion is of a certain size, it can be excised for pathological examination. <br>Of course, if the physician deems that a pathological assessment is unnecessary, they may make a judgment based on appe

Issues with the glans: small irregular bumps that feel uneven to the touch?

Hello, Doctor.
I have had a single sexual partner for the past two years, but over the last six months to a year, I have noticed a small bump on the glans that is not very visible to the naked eye.
I can only feel it when I touch it with my fingers, and it has a slightly prickly sensation.
I think I may have picked at it once, and it returned to a smooth texture, but after a while, it reappeared in the same spot.
It doesn't look like a wart, and there hasn't been any trend of growth.
I haven't picked at it again because I'm afraid of infection.
Recently, I also felt a small bump in another location.
What could this be, and should I see a urologist for an examination? Thank you!

Chen Hao, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/23

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: I personally recommend having a check-up at a major hospital.
If the lesion is of a certain size, it can be excised for pathological examination.
Of course, if the physician deems that a pathological assessment is unnecessary, they may make a judgment based on appearance and proceed with electrosurgery or other treatment methods directly.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/02/23

More Info

When it comes to small bumps on the glans (the head of the penis), it is essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness of potential underlying conditions. Based on your description, the small, slightly raised bumps that you have noticed over the past couple of years could be attributed to several benign conditions, but they may also warrant further investigation to rule out any serious issues.

One common cause of small bumps on the glans is pearly penile papules, which are harmless and typically appear as small, dome-shaped bumps around the corona of the glans. These are normal anatomical variations and do not require treatment. Another possibility is Fordyce spots, which are small, painless, pale bumps that are sebaceous glands that are visible due to their location. Both of these conditions are benign and do not pose any health risks.

However, since you mentioned that the bumps have a "prickly" sensation and that you have previously picked at them, it is crucial to consider other possibilities. For instance, the bumps could be related to a condition known as penile warts, which are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts can appear as small, flesh-colored or gray growths and may require treatment, especially if they are bothersome or if there is any concern about transmission to a partner.

Additionally, the bumps could also be a sign of a condition called balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans that can result from infections, irritations, or skin conditions. Symptoms of balanitis can include redness, swelling, and discomfort, and it may require medical treatment to resolve.

Given that you have noticed these bumps for an extended period and that they have recurred, it is advisable to consult a urologist. A urologist specializes in male reproductive health and can perform a thorough examination to determine the nature of the bumps. They may conduct a visual inspection and, if necessary, perform additional tests such as a biopsy or swab to rule out infections or other conditions.

It is also essential to consider your sexual health history. Since you mentioned having a single sexual partner, it is still important to ensure that both you and your partner are free from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Regular check-ups and open communication with your partner about any concerns can help maintain sexual health.

In summary, while many small bumps on the glans can be benign, it is always better to err on the side of caution. A visit to a urologist will provide you with peace of mind and ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Remember, early detection and treatment of any condition can lead to better outcomes and overall health.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Bumps on the Glans: When to See a Urologist

Recently, while cleaning my genital area, I noticed that the surface of the glans has raised, hill-like bumps that are shinier than the surrounding skin and slightly red. The area is smaller than 1 square centimeter, and it does not itch or hurt. My urination is normal. I have no...

Dr. Jiang Yini reply Urology
Based on your description, the protruding bumps on the glans are likely not a significant medical concern and may simply be a temporary irritative reaction.

Concerns About Small Bumps on the Glans: When to See a Urologist?

Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you with some questions and concerns regarding my private area, which can be divided into two parts. The first part: I accidentally discovered that the glans appears normal when the skin is not pulled back (flattened), showing no abnorm...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If you have doubts about a diagnosis made by a dermatologist, you should seek medical evaluation at a hospital. Wishing you good health.

Understanding White Bumps on the Glans: When to Seek Urology Help

There are numerous small white bumps on the glans, some near the urethral opening and others on the surface of the glans, but they can only be clearly seen when erect. The number has been increasing over the past few years, but there is no pain associated with them. I have not en...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: If you have engaged in sexual activity, it is advisable to get checked; there may not necessarily be any issues, but it's better to be cautious. If you have no sexual experience, it is mostly normal. Wishing you good health.

Experiencing Painful Bumps? When to See a Urologist for STD Concerns

I went to a Vietnamese restaurant with my friend, and two weeks later, I noticed a small pimple on my glans. There's only one, but it hurts a bit when I urinate. Where should I go to see a doctor? Thank you!

Dr. Xu Wencang reply Urology
It is best to go to a hospital with a urology department for a detailed examination. Xu Wencang.