Growths at the Base of the Penis: When to Seek Help - Urology

More Info

---

When it comes to growths at the base of the penis, it's essential to approach the situation with caution and awareness of potential underlying issues. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you should consider and when to seek medical help.


Understanding the Growth
1. Nature of the Growth: The growth you described, which resembles a cyst or pilar cyst (commonly known as a sebaceous cyst), is often benign. These cysts can occur due to blocked sebaceous glands and are typically filled with keratin. However, the fact that it is painful when pressed and has a significant size (about the size of a fingernail) warrants further investigation. Pain can indicate inflammation or infection, and in some cases, it could suggest a more serious condition.

2. Differential Diagnoses: While sebaceous cysts are common, other conditions can present similarly, including:
- Folliculitis: Inflammation of hair follicles, often due to infection.

- Lipomas: Benign tumors made of fat tissue.

- Dermatofibromas: Benign growths that can feel firm and may be painful.

- Malignant tumors: Though less common, skin cancers can present as growths or lesions.

When to Seek Help
You should seek medical attention if:
- The growth is painful, especially if the pain is severe.

- There are changes in the size, color, or texture of the growth.

- You notice any discharge or bleeding from the growth.

- There are other symptoms such as fever, swelling, or systemic signs of infection.


Which Specialist to Consult
Given the location and nature of the growth, you have a couple of options:
- Dermatologist: A dermatologist specializes in skin conditions and would be well-equipped to evaluate and treat skin-related issues, including cysts and other growths.

- Urologist: If there are concerns about the growth being related to the urinary or reproductive system, a urologist would be the appropriate specialist to consult.


Preparing for Your Appointment
1. Trim Hair: While it’s not strictly necessary to trim pubic hair before your appointment, doing so can help the doctor examine the area more easily. However, if you are uncomfortable doing this, it’s perfectly fine to leave it as is.

2. Document Symptoms: Keep a record of any symptoms you’ve experienced, including the duration of the growth, any changes, and any associated pain or discomfort. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

3. Questions to Ask: Prepare a list of questions to ask during your appointment, such as:
- What could be causing this growth?
- What tests might be necessary to determine the nature of the growth?
- What treatment options are available if it is indeed a cyst or another benign condition?

Conclusion
In summary, while the growth at the base of your penis may be benign, the presence of pain and its size necessitates a medical evaluation. Consulting with either a dermatologist or a urologist will provide you with the best course of action. Early intervention can help alleviate any potential complications and provide peace of mind. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.