Black Spots on the Penis: Causes and Concerns

Black spots on the penis?

Hello: I have been married to my husband for over a year, and recently I noticed about ten black spots on his penis.
He mentioned that this has happened before; originally, they were white spots that turned into blackheads after a while, and then he would squeeze them out, which resolved the issue.
They look similar to larger blackheads we might have on our skin (with a black head and a white tip).
He says they are not painful or itchy, but I really want to know what they are.

cc, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/05/31

Dr. Pan Zhenqin reply Urology

At the junction of the glans and the shaft of the penis (known as the coronal sulcus), there are small yellowish-white bumps, colloquially referred to as "pearls on the coronal sulcus." This is a benign condition that many people have, generally believed to be caused by chronic inflammation or infection, and it is usually not a cause for concern.

Reply Date: 2001/05/31

More Info

When it comes to the appearance of black spots on the penis, there are several potential causes that can be considered. Based on your description, it sounds like your husband has developed what could be sebaceous cysts or possibly a type of follicular keratosis. These conditions are generally benign and often do not require treatment unless they become bothersome or infected.

Sebaceous Cysts: These are small, non-cancerous lumps beneath the skin that can occur anywhere on the body, including the genital area. They are formed when the sebaceous glands become blocked, leading to the accumulation of sebum (an oily substance). Initially, these cysts may appear white or skin-colored, but over time, they can darken, especially if they become inflamed or if the contents are expelled.

Follicular Keratosis: This condition is characterized by the presence of small, rough bumps on the skin, which can sometimes appear darker. These bumps are caused by the buildup of keratin, a protein found in the skin, and are often harmless. They can appear in clusters and may resemble blackheads.

Pearly Penile Papules: Another possibility is pearly penile papules, which are small, harmless bumps that can appear around the corona of the glans (the head of the penis). They are typically white or skin-colored but can sometimes appear darker. These are a normal anatomical variation and do not require treatment.

Moles or Skin Tags: It’s also possible that what you are seeing are moles or skin tags. Moles can vary in color and can appear anywhere on the body, including the genital area. Skin tags are small, soft pieces of skin that hang off the body and are usually harmless.

When to Seek Medical Attention: While many of these conditions are benign, it is essential to monitor any changes in size, color, or texture of the spots. If your husband experiences any pain, itching, or if the spots bleed or change significantly, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. A dermatologist or urologist can provide a thorough examination and determine if any treatment is necessary.

Self-Care and Treatment: If the spots are indeed sebaceous cysts or similar benign conditions, they may not require any treatment. However, if your husband prefers to have them removed for cosmetic reasons, a healthcare provider can perform this procedure safely. It’s crucial not to attempt to squeeze or pop these spots at home, as this can lead to infection or scarring.

In conclusion, while the appearance of black spots on the penis can be concerning, many potential causes are benign and not indicative of a serious health issue. Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider can help ensure that any changes are appropriately addressed. If you have further concerns or if the spots change in any way, seeking medical advice is always a prudent step.

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