Testicular Issues: What Causes White Spots That Disappear in Water? - Urology

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Testicular issues?


The presence of a white substance on the testicles that disappears when wet and reappears when dry may indicate the presence of smegma, which is a combination of dead skin cells, oils, and moisture.
It is a normal occurrence but can be more pronounced if proper hygiene is not maintained.
If there are any concerns about irritation, discomfort, or unusual changes, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

K, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/17

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: There are white spots on the testicles that disappear when wet but reappear when dry.
What could be the issue? --> Rinse with clean water and dry.
If it continues to appear, please seek medical attention.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/17

More Info


The presence of white spots on the testicles that disappear when wet but reappear when dry can be concerning and may indicate a few different conditions. It’s essential to understand the context and characteristics of these spots to determine their potential causes.

Firstly, the white spots could be a result of a few benign conditions. One possibility is the presence of sebaceous cysts, which are small, non-cancerous lumps that can occur on the skin, including the scrotum. These cysts are filled with a substance called sebum, which is produced by sebaceous glands. They are typically harmless and may not require treatment unless they become painful or infected.

Another possibility is a condition known as pearly penile papules, which are small, white or flesh-colored bumps that can appear around the glans of the penis and sometimes on the scrotum. These are normal anatomical variations and are not associated with any disease or health issues.

However, if the white spots are accompanied by other symptoms such as itching, burning, or any unusual discharge, it could indicate a more serious condition, such as a fungal or bacterial infection. For instance, a yeast infection can cause white patches and may require antifungal treatment. Similarly, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like herpes or genital warts can also present with white lesions or spots.

It’s also worth noting that skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis can affect the genital area, leading to the appearance of white patches. These conditions are typically characterized by inflammation, redness, and sometimes scaling or flaking of the skin.

The fact that the spots disappear when wet may suggest that they are superficial and related to the skin's moisture levels. When the area is hydrated, the appearance of the spots may diminish, but they can become more visible when the skin dries out.

Given the variety of potential causes, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely. If the white spots persist, change in appearance, or are accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend tests to determine the exact cause of the spots.

In summary, while the presence of white spots on the testicles that disappear in water may not always indicate a serious problem, it is essential to consider the overall context and any accompanying symptoms. If there are concerns about the nature of these spots or if they cause discomfort, it is best to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and appropriate management. Regular check-ups and open communication with a healthcare provider are key to maintaining reproductive health and addressing any issues that may arise.

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