White Bumps on the Penis: Causes and Concerns

Q: White Bumps on the Penis: Causes and Concerns

Hello： Based on your description, the likelihood of a pilar cyst or sebaceous gland is highest, which are benign lesions. <br>If you have concerns, you can visit a urology clinic for a diagnostic confirmation. <br>Sincerely, Dr. <br>Chen Hsiu-Yi, Urology.

White spot depression?

I have a question that has been hidden in my heart for several years.
In middle school, I discovered two phenomena below my glans:
1.
The lower edge of the foreskin is covered with numerous white spots, approximately less than 0.1 mm in size.
For example, they appear like this: ....
<== The spacing between these spots is similar, and they do not cause pain or itching.
When I pull the foreskin taut, they fade and disperse.
It's difficult to count their quantity.
2.
There are more than ten slightly raised spots along the midline of the penis, approximately close to 1 mm in size.
For example, they feel like this: , , , and they are also not painful or itchy.
Sometimes they appear, and sometimes they disappear unpredictably.
I am now in my second year of college, and this issue has persisted.
I previously read about symptoms similar to mine, and some explanations referred to sebaceous cysts or pearly penile papules.
Could it be that the slightly raised white spots are hair follicles? I also noticed similar white spots on the skin of my scrotum.

I apologize for writing so much for you to read! Sometimes I find myself easily troubled by small matters.

Xiao Ping, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/09/28

Dr. Chen Xiuyi reply Urology

Hello: Based on your description, the likelihood of a pilar cyst or sebaceous gland is highest, which are benign lesions.
If you have concerns, you can visit a urology clinic for a diagnostic confirmation.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Hsiu-Yi, Urology.

Reply Date: 2004/09/28

More Info

Understanding the presence of white bumps on the penis can be a source of concern for many individuals, especially when these bumps are persistent and seemingly without cause. Based on your description, it appears that you are experiencing two distinct phenomena: white spots along the lower edge of the foreskin and small, slightly raised bumps along the penile shaft.
Firstly, the white spots you describe on the foreskin could potentially be a condition known as Pearly Penile Papules (PPP). These are small, benign, dome-shaped bumps that typically appear around the corona of the glans (the head of the penis). They are usually white or skin-colored and can vary in number and size. Importantly, PPP is a normal anatomical variant and is not associated with any disease or infection. They are harmless and do not require treatment unless they cause psychological distress.

The second set of bumps you mentioned along the midline of the penis could be sebaceous glands or hair follicles that have become more prominent. The penis has numerous sebaceous glands that can sometimes become clogged, leading to the formation of small, raised bumps. These are also generally harmless and can fluctuate in visibility based on various factors, including hormonal changes or skin conditions.

Another possibility for the white bumps could be Fordyce spots, which are small, painless, pale bumps that can appear on the shaft of the penis and are caused by enlarged sebaceous glands. Like PPP, Fordyce spots are completely normal and do not require any treatment.

It’s also worth mentioning that while the conditions described above are benign, any new or changing lesions on the penis should be evaluated by a healthcare professional, particularly if they change in appearance, become painful, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as discharge or itching.
In terms of management, if the bumps are not causing you any discomfort or psychological distress, they may not require any intervention. However, if you find that they are causing you anxiety or if you have concerns about their appearance, it may be beneficial to consult with a dermatologist or urologist. They can provide a thorough examination and reassurance, as well as discuss potential treatment options if necessary.

In conclusion, while the presence of white bumps on the penis can be alarming, many of these conditions are benign and common. Understanding the nature of these bumps can help alleviate concerns. However, it is always advisable to seek professional medical advice for any persistent or concerning symptoms to ensure peace of mind and proper care.

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