Penile Symptoms: Is It Eczema or Something More Serious?

The term "老二

From November 21 to 25, I traveled to Beijing.
On the 23rd, I had sexual intercourse with a hotel staff member, during which I used a condom.
However, during oral sex, I did not use a condom.
After returning home, the next day I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend without a condom.
On the morning of December 6, I noticed itching under the glans and found small white bumps (which are only visible when I pull back the folds).
They are not blisters.
That day, I went to the outpatient clinic at Hong Surgical Hospital (on Minsheng Road).
The doctor examined me and said it was eczema and not a concern.
I was prescribed two tubes of Calamine lotion (clobetasol).
The next day, the itching stopped, and a few days later, the white bumps decreased and became less noticeable.
If the symptoms do not improve, could this be genital warts? Is it contagious to my girlfriend? Is this a sexually transmitted infection? Please provide me with answers.
Thank you.

Wenbin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/12

Dr. Pan Zhenqin reply Urology

According to your description, it could be a cholesteatoma, which is not harmful! However, it will not disappear.
You can observe it for another week or two; if it does not grow larger or develop a cauliflower-like appearance, it is likely not a wart.
To confirm the diagnosis, please visit the outpatient clinic for an actual examination.
Wishing you peace and health from the Urology Department of Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare!

Reply Date: 2004/12/12

More Info

When it comes to penile symptoms, particularly after engaging in sexual activities, it is crucial to approach the situation with caution and an understanding of potential conditions. Based on your description, you experienced itching and the appearance of small white bumps on the underside of the glans (the head of the penis) after a series of sexual encounters. You were diagnosed with eczema by a physician and prescribed a topical corticosteroid cream, which seems to have alleviated some of your symptoms.

1. Understanding the Symptoms: The symptoms you describe—itching and the presence of small white bumps—can be indicative of several conditions. Eczema, or dermatitis, is a common skin condition that can occur in sensitive areas, including the genital region. It often presents as itchy, inflamed skin and can be exacerbated by friction, moisture, or irritants. The fact that the symptoms improved with the use of a topical corticosteroid suggests that inflammation was indeed a contributing factor.

2. Differentiating Conditions: While eczema is a possibility, it is essential to consider other conditions that could present similarly. For instance, pearly penile papules, which are harmless and common, can appear as small white bumps around the glans. However, if the bumps are new and accompanied by itching, other conditions such as genital warts (caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV) or a fungal infection could also be considered. Genital warts typically appear as small, flesh-colored or white bumps and can be transmitted sexually.

3. Transmission Concerns: If the bumps you are experiencing are indeed genital warts, they are contagious and can be transmitted to sexual partners. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection, and while many strains are harmless, some can lead to warts or even increase the risk of certain cancers. If your symptoms do not resolve or worsen, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend a visual examination, and in some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to rule out other conditions.

4. Next Steps: Since your symptoms have improved with treatment, it is a positive sign. However, continued monitoring is essential. If the white bumps persist or if you experience any new symptoms (such as pain, discharge, or changes in the appearance of the bumps), you should seek further medical advice. A dermatologist or urologist specializing in sexual health can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and possibly conduct tests to confirm the diagnosis.

5. Preventive Measures: To reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections in the future, consider using protection consistently, including during oral sex. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider for STI screenings are also advisable, especially after new sexual encounters.

In conclusion, while your symptoms may be related to eczema, it is essential to remain vigilant and consult a healthcare professional if your condition does not improve or if you have concerns about potential sexually transmitted infections. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing any health issues effectively.

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