White Spots on the Inner Foreskin: Causes and Concerns

Q: White Spots on the Inner Foreskin: Causes and Concerns

Concerned individual： Hello, a pearly penile papule typically appears around the coronal sulcus and resembles a necklace encircling the area. <br>In your case, it is best to seek medical attention. <br>If you are shy, you can take a photograph and bring it to the clinic for diagn

Small white spots on the inner side of the foreskin?

Hello Doctor, I am a high school student and I have not been circumcised.
My symptoms are small white spots on the inner side of my foreskin (when I pull it back).
There are about 7 or 8 visible spots, some are about the size of a period while others are smaller and clustered together.
They are not painful or itchy.
When I touch them, they feel raised.
I remember these spots have been there for a long time (probably 1 to 2 years).
Although I don't recall them getting larger or increasing in number, I recently started to worry that I might have some kind of disease.
I have no sexual experience, just a habit of masturbation, but I pay close attention to hygiene.
What could this condition be? I did some research online and found that it might be what is commonly referred to as pearly penile papules, but the articles I read say that these only grow around the base of the glans, while my glans has none of these white spots; they are only present on the inner side of the foreskin.
Could this be a sexually transmitted infection, like genital warts? But I am still a virgin.
Is this normal? Is treatment necessary? These white spots are bothering me, and being young, I feel embarrassed to see a doctor.
Please help me with your answers.
Thank you.

Fanrao de ren, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/07/20

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Concerned individual: Hello, a pearly penile papule typically appears around the coronal sulcus and resembles a necklace encircling the area.
In your case, it is best to seek medical attention.
If you are shy, you can take a photograph and bring it to the clinic for diagnosis.
Note: The likelihood of genital warts is low, as they usually present as dark brown lesions.
Response from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2006/07/20

More Info

Understanding the presence of white spots on the inner foreskin can be concerning, especially for someone who is still in high school and may feel embarrassed about discussing such issues. Based on your description, it seems that you have observed small white spots on the inner side of your foreskin, which have been present for a significant amount of time without any accompanying pain or discomfort.
Firstly, it is important to note that the appearance of white spots in this area can have several benign explanations. One common condition that could be responsible for these spots is known as Pearly Penile Papules. These are small, harmless bumps that typically appear around the corona (the ridge of the glans) of the penis and can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions. However, you mentioned that your spots are located on the inner foreskin, which is less typical for pearly penile papules but does not rule out other benign conditions.

Another possibility is Fordyce spots, which are small, painless, pale bumps that can appear on the genital area and are simply enlarged sebaceous (oil) glands. They are completely normal and do not require treatment.
Given that you have been maintaining good hygiene and have not experienced any changes in size or number of the spots, it is less likely that these are indicative of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as genital warts (caused by the human papillomavirus, HPV). STIs typically present with additional symptoms such as itching, burning, or discomfort, which you have not described.

However, it is crucial to differentiate between benign conditions and those that may require medical attention. While your symptoms do not suggest an immediate cause for concern, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. A doctor can perform a physical examination and provide reassurance or treatment if necessary.
If you are feeling anxious about visiting a doctor, consider discussing your concerns with a trusted adult or seeking out a healthcare provider who specializes in adolescent health. Many clinics offer confidential services, and healthcare professionals are accustomed to discussing sensitive topics without judgment.

In summary, while the white spots you are observing are likely benign, it is essential to seek medical advice for peace of mind and to rule out any potential issues. Remember, taking care of your health is important, and addressing concerns early can lead to better outcomes.

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