Gray Line on Penis: Is It Phimosis or a Sign of STD? - Urology

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I have a gray line on the skin of my penis?


I have a gray line on the skin of the foreskin on the back of my penis, extending from the tip of the foreskin to the skin near the testicles, which is the entire length of the penis.
There are also small white spots within that line.
Is this balanitis, or could it be a type of sexually transmitted infection? I have not had any sexual experience yet.

san, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/08/08

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


San: Hello, may I ask how long this line has been present? Does it hurt? Are there any other symptoms? Based solely on your description, I cannot make a judgment.
I apologize, but it is best to go to the hospital; a physical examination is necessary for a diagnosis.
Department of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Director Hsu Wei-Kai.

Reply Date: 2005/08/08

More Info


The presence of a gray line on the penis, particularly if it extends from the foreskin to the scrotum, can be concerning and may lead to questions about its nature. Given that you mentioned the line is accompanied by small white spots, it is essential to consider several possibilities, including phimosis, pearly penile papules, or other dermatological conditions.
Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin cannot be easily retracted over the glans (the head of the penis). This can sometimes lead to inflammation or infection, resulting in symptoms such as redness, swelling, or discharge. However, phimosis itself does not typically present as a gray line or spots.
On the other hand, the gray line you are observing could potentially be a normal anatomical feature known as the frenulum, which is a band of tissue on the underside of the penis. However, if it appears abnormal or is associated with other symptoms, it may warrant further investigation.

The small white spots you described could be pearly penile papules, which are harmless and common anatomical variations that appear as small, dome-shaped bumps along the corona of the glans. They are not a sign of an STD and do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or concern.

However, if there are signs of inflammation, such as redness, itching, or discharge, or if the appearance of the gray line and white spots changes, it could indicate a condition such as balanitis (inflammation of the glans) or an infection. In such cases, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Since you mentioned that you have not had any sexual experience, the likelihood of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is lower, but it is still possible to have infections or other conditions unrelated to sexual activity.
Recommendations:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is essential to see a healthcare professional, such as a urologist or dermatologist, who can perform a physical examination and possibly conduct tests to determine the exact nature of the gray line and white spots.


2. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it is tempting to search for answers online, self-diagnosing can lead to unnecessary anxiety or misinterpretation of symptoms. A professional evaluation is the best course of action.

3. Maintain Hygiene: Regardless of the diagnosis, maintaining proper genital hygiene is crucial. Gently cleaning the area with mild soap and water can help prevent irritation and infections.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the appearance of the gray line or white spots, as well as any new symptoms that may arise, such as pain, itching, or discharge. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while the gray line and white spots may not necessarily indicate a severe condition, it is essential to seek medical advice to rule out any potential issues and receive appropriate care. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, so do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for assistance.

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