Small White Bumps on the Glans: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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There are small bumps in the coronal sulcus of the glans penis?


Hello, doctor: I have a row of small white bumps on both sides of the coronal sulcus of my glans.
They are not painful or itchy, and I noticed them over a month ago.
The bumps above the glans were recently discovered after masturbation, but they haven't increased in size.
I have a steady girlfriend; could this be genital warts?

coac, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/05/11

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Hello, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is essential to visit a medical facility for proper care.
This message is from the Department of Urology, Director Hsu Wei-Kai, Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2012/05/11

More Info


Understanding small white bumps on the glans, particularly in the context of your description, can be concerning, but it’s important to approach this with accurate medical knowledge. The bumps you are describing, especially if they are small, white, and painless, could potentially be a few different things, but they are unlikely to be warts (commonly referred to as "菜花" in Mandarin, which translates to "cauliflower" due to their appearance).

One common cause of small white bumps on the glans is Pearly Penile Papules. These are small, dome-shaped, white or flesh-colored bumps that typically appear around the corona of the glans. They are completely normal anatomical variations and are not associated with any disease or infection. They are harmless and do not require treatment.

Another possibility could be Fordyce Spots, which are small, painless, pale bumps that are sebaceous glands that are visible on the surface of the skin. They are also a normal variant and are not a sign of any health issue.

If the bumps were to be warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), they would typically appear as raised, rough, or cauliflower-like lesions. HPV can be sexually transmitted, and while it can lead to genital warts, it is important to note that not all bumps or lesions on the genital area are warts.
Given that you mentioned these bumps are not painful or itchy and have not changed in size, it is less likely that they are a sign of a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a serious condition. However, it is crucial to consider that any new or unusual growths on the genital area should be evaluated by a healthcare professional for a definitive diagnosis.
In terms of your concern about your girlfriend, if you have been in a monogamous relationship and have not had any other sexual partners, the likelihood of transmitting an STI is reduced, but it is still possible to carry and transmit HPV without showing symptoms.
To summarize, the small white bumps you are observing on the glans are likely benign conditions such as Pearly Penile Papules or Fordyce Spots. However, if you have any doubts or if the bumps change in appearance, size, or if you develop any other symptoms, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider or a dermatologist. They can perform a physical examination and, if necessary, conduct tests to rule out any infections or other conditions.
In conclusion, while the presence of small white bumps can be alarming, understanding their potential causes can help alleviate concerns. Regular check-ups and open communication with your partner about sexual health are essential for maintaining overall well-being.

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