Small Bumps on the Glans: Causes and Concerns

Foreign body in the glans penis?

I have developed nine to ten small round spots on the glans, not on the coronal sulcus but on the surface of the glans.
They have been present for a long time without any changes, and they are not painful or itchy, matching the skin color.
Additionally, there are two or three very tiny spots elsewhere that are similar in size to a pinhead.
Could you please tell me what this condition might be? I am still a virgin and have only masturbated in the bathroom.

Yin Q, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/09/18

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

Hello, the common skin protrusions you mentioned may be caused by abnormal keratin proliferation known as milia.
These appear as skin-colored or light brown, round, multiple small nodules that resemble tiny beads, with white, pinhead-sized papules primarily due to cystic retention of keratin in the upper dermis.
They may also result from androgen-induced sebaceous gland hyperplasia during puberty, ectopic sebaceous glands, or epidermal pigment deposition.
However, milia typically appear white, while sebaceous gland hyperplasia appears yellow, and usually, milia do not require treatment.
Some of these papules can occur on the penis or directly on the nipples.
There are also small papules referred to as penile pearly papules.
This condition does not affect your health or physiological function, and if asymptomatic, no treatment is necessary.
Approximately 10% of males may develop penile pearly papules.
These small papules are arranged in rows (circumferentially) along the coronal sulcus of the penis, ranging from the size of a pinhead to that of a grain of millet, and can be skin-colored or light pink.
They cannot be washed or scraped off, are painless and itch-free, and represent a benign skin condition.
The exact cause is still unclear; however, they do not impact the patient's overall health, urinary function, or sexual function, and they are not contagious.
The color of penile pearly papules can be pink, white, or yellow, with transparent ones being less common.
They typically measure 1-2 mm in width and 1-4 mm in length, appearing as round papules arranged in single or double rows along the coronal sulcus of the penis.
They usually have no symptoms and are often discovered incidentally by the patient.
If there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or urologist, as a physician often needs to perform a visual examination, palpation, and take a medical history to confirm the diagnosis.

Reply Date: 2010/09/18

More Info

When it comes to small bumps on the glans (the head of the penis), there are several potential causes that can be considered. Based on your description of having nine to ten small, round, skin-colored dots on the glans that have not changed over time and are not painful or itchy, it is likely that these bumps are benign and not indicative of a serious medical condition. Here are some common explanations for such findings:
1. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, dome-shaped bumps that are often found around the corona of the glans. They are completely normal anatomical variations and are not a sign of any disease. Pearly penile papules are harmless and do not require treatment unless they cause psychological distress.

2. Fordyce Spots: These are small, painless, pale bumps that can appear on the glans or shaft of the penis. They are sebaceous glands that are not associated with hair follicles and are considered a normal variant of skin anatomy. Like pearly penile papules, they are harmless.

3. Sebaceous Cysts: These can occur anywhere on the body, including the genital area. They are small, non-painful lumps that can be filled with a fatty substance. If they are not causing any discomfort, they typically do not require treatment.

4. Lichen Planus: This is a condition that can cause small, flat-topped bumps on the skin, including the genital area. However, lichen planus is usually associated with itching and discomfort, which you do not report.

5. Genital Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), genital warts can appear as small bumps. They may be flesh-colored or slightly darker and can vary in size. However, they are usually associated with other symptoms such as itching or discomfort.

6. Other Dermatological Conditions: There are various other skin conditions that can affect the genital area, including psoriasis and eczema, but these typically present with additional symptoms like redness, scaling, or itching.

Given that you are a virgin and have not engaged in sexual intercourse, the likelihood of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) causing these bumps is low. However, if you have any concerns about the bumps, or if they change in appearance, become painful, or if you notice any other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination.
In conclusion, while the small bumps you describe are likely benign, it is always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to any changes in your body. A healthcare provider can offer a definitive diagnosis and peace of mind. Regular self-examinations and being aware of any changes in your body are important for maintaining good health. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a medical professional.

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