Moles on the Penis and Scrotum: When to Seek Treatment

Q: Moles on the Penis and Scrotum: When to Seek Treatment

Leo： Hello, whether you need to remove it depends on your concern aside from its location. <br>Generally, areas that are prone to friction are recommended for removal to prevent any potential lesions caused by irritation. <br>If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask agai

Multiple moles on the penis and scrotum?

Hello Doctor: I have many dark moles on my penis and scrotum, with two or three larger ones that I've had since childhood.
I usually don't pay much attention to them, but I read that moles on the genitals can be prone to changes due to friction.
Upon closer examination, I found that I have over twenty moles of various sizes, with a few measuring between 0.2 cm and 0.3 cm.
There are also some on my foreskin, as well as many small black spots scattered on my scrotum, all of which are flat.
I consulted two dermatologists; one suggested that I should see a urologist to have the moles removed, while the other said they are not a concern and that only moles on the hands and feet should be removed.
My genitals seem to be darker than other areas, and I wonder if frequent friction could lead to increased melanin deposition.
It seems that I have more moles on my body than the average person.
I would like to ask, is it normal to have many moles on the genitals? Could frequent walking or sexual activity cause friction that leads to changes? Is it necessary to remove them all through surgery or laser treatment? Thank you!

leo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/03/04

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Leo: Hello, whether you need to remove it depends on your concern aside from its location.
Generally, areas that are prone to friction are recommended for removal to prevent any potential lesions caused by irritation.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Online responses should only serve as a reference; if necessary, you should seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2012/03/04

More Info

When it comes to moles on the penis and scrotum, it is essential to understand that while many individuals have moles in various areas of their body, the presence of multiple moles in the genital region can raise concerns about potential changes or abnormalities. Moles, or nevi, are generally benign growths of skin cells that contain pigment. However, certain factors can influence their behavior and appearance, particularly in areas that experience friction or irritation.

In your case, having multiple moles on the penis and scrotum, some of which have been present since childhood, is not uncommon. Moles can vary in size, shape, and color, and it is not unusual for individuals to have a higher concentration of moles in specific areas of their body, including the genital region. The friction caused by walking, clothing, or sexual activity can lead to changes in the skin, including increased pigmentation, which may explain why your moles appear darker.

However, it is crucial to monitor any changes in your moles. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guideline for assessing moles for potential signs of melanoma, a type of skin cancer. The criteria include:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other.

- Border: The edges are irregular, ragged, or blurred.

- Color: The color is not uniform and may include shades of brown, black, or even red, white, or blue.

- Diameter: The mole is larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).

- Evolving: The mole is changing in size, shape, or color.

If you notice any of these changes, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly. Regular skin checks by a dermatologist are also advisable, especially for areas that are difficult to monitor on your own.

Regarding treatment options, the decision to remove moles should be based on several factors, including their appearance, any changes noted, and your personal comfort level. If a dermatologist or urologist recommends removal, it may be for precautionary reasons, especially if there is any suspicion of atypical features. Surgical excision or laser treatment can be effective methods for mole removal, but they should be performed by qualified medical professionals to ensure proper technique and minimize scarring.

In summary, while having multiple moles on the penis and scrotum can be normal, it is essential to monitor them for any changes and consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns. Regular dermatological evaluations can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed early. If you experience any discomfort or changes in the moles, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and a qualified professional can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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