Penile Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Help - Urology

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When it comes to penile bumps, it's essential to understand that there are various potential causes, and while many are benign, some may require medical attention. The bump you describe, located at the junction of the penis and scrotum, could be due to several reasons, including but not limited to:
1. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, harmless bumps that typically appear around the corona of the glans (the head of the penis). They are common and usually do not require treatment.

2. Sebaceous Cysts: These are small, non-painful lumps that can occur anywhere on the body, including the genital area. They are caused by blocked sebaceous glands and are generally harmless.

3. Folliculitis: This condition occurs when hair follicles become inflamed, often due to infection or irritation. It can lead to small, red bumps that may be tender to the touch.

4. Genital Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these can appear as small, flesh-colored or gray bumps. They may be raised or flat and can occur in clusters.

5. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): If the bump is painful and accompanied by other symptoms such as blisters or sores, it could be a sign of a herpes infection.

6. Lymphocele: This is a collection of lymphatic fluid that can occur after trauma or surgery in the area, leading to a lump.

7. Other Conditions: Conditions such as molluscum contagiosum, which is a viral infection that causes small, painless bumps, or even more serious conditions like penile cancer, though rare, should not be overlooked.

Given that you mentioned the bump is slightly painful when pressed and is about 0.5 cm in size, it is advisable to seek medical evaluation. While many bumps are benign, any new or changing lesion in the genital area warrants a professional assessment to rule out infections, sexually transmitted diseases, or other conditions that may require treatment.


When to Seek Help:
- If the bump changes in size, color, or shape.

- If it becomes painful, especially if the pain increases.

- If you notice any discharge, bleeding, or other unusual symptoms.

- If you experience systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, or malaise.


Conclusion:
In summary, while many penile bumps are harmless, it is crucial to have any new or concerning lesions evaluated by a healthcare professional. They can perform a physical examination, possibly conduct tests, and provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Early intervention can help address any potential issues and provide peace of mind. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.