Penile Bumps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

The penis has developed a protrusion?

I initially experienced itching on my penis, and after a few days, two round bumps appeared on the glans.
They eventually burst and gradually shrank.
A few days later, another identical bump appeared on my penis, which has not healed and continues to itch more and more.
This has been ongoing for about one to two weeks.
I would like to ask the doctor what this condition might be.
Will it heal on its own? Do I need to see a doctor?

Xiao Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/08/03

Dr. Liu Jianting reply Urology

Could it be a fungal infection? Quickly go to the hospital and consult a urologist.

Reply Date: 2009/08/03

More Info

When it comes to penile bumps, there are several potential causes, and understanding the symptoms and when to seek medical help is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing itchy, raised lesions on the glans (the head of the penis) that have changed over time, including some that have ruptured and then shrunk.

Possible Causes
1. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, benign bumps that can appear around the corona of the glans. They are normal anatomical variations and do not require treatment.

2. Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that are sebaceous glands without hair follicles. They are harmless and common.

3. Genital Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as small, flesh-colored or gray bumps. They can be itchy and may change in size or shape.

4. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): This can cause painful blisters or sores on the genital area. The initial outbreak may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

5. Folliculitis: This is an inflammation of the hair follicles that can cause red, itchy bumps. It can occur due to irritation or infection.

6. Contact Dermatitis: This can occur due to irritation from soaps, lotions, or other products that come into contact with the genital area.

7. Balanitis: This is an inflammation of the glans, which can be caused by infections, poor hygiene, or irritants. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and itching.

Symptoms to Monitor
- Itching: Persistent itching can indicate an infection or irritation.

- Discharge: Any unusual discharge from the penis should be evaluated.

- Pain or discomfort: If the bumps are painful, it’s important to seek medical attention.

- Changes in size or appearance: If the bumps change in size, color, or shape, this warrants a visit to a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Help
Given that your symptoms have persisted for over a week and are accompanied by itching, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor, preferably a urologist or a dermatologist, can provide a proper examination and may perform tests to determine the exact cause of the bumps.

Diagnosis and Treatment
During your visit, the doctor may:
- Conduct a physical examination of the affected area.

- Ask about your medical history, including any recent sexual activity, use of new products, or other symptoms.

- Perform tests, such as a swab of the lesions, to check for infections like herpes or HPV.

Treatment will depend on the diagnosis:
- For infections: Antiviral medications may be prescribed for herpes, while topical treatments may be used for warts.

- For dermatitis: Avoiding irritants and using topical corticosteroids may help.

- For benign conditions: If the bumps are harmless, no treatment may be necessary.

Conclusion
In summary, while some penile bumps can be benign, the presence of itching and changes in the lesions suggests that you should seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent potential complications. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your genital area.

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