Pearly Penile Papules: Causes and Concerns

Q: Pearly Penile Papules: Causes and Concerns

Eternal： You may have a benign adenoma, which is a normal glandular tissue. <br>No treatment is necessary. <br>However, a complete diagnosis cannot be made. <br>There are other conditions to consider. <br>If you are concerned, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as

Pimples below the glans?

Hello Doctor: I have noticed about 5-6 small white bumps that resemble pimples on either side of the glans beneath the urethral opening.
They feel soft to the touch, cannot be removed or washed away, and pulling on them causes pain.
These have been present for approximately 10 years, and I remember they appeared shortly after I became sexually active with my first girlfriend.
Could this be a sexually transmitted infection, or is it simply a matter of inadequate hygiene? I appreciate your time in addressing my concerns.
Thank you! :)

Yongheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/06/18

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Eternal: You may have a benign adenoma, which is a normal glandular tissue.
No treatment is necessary.
However, a complete diagnosis cannot be made.
There are other conditions to consider.
If you are concerned, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again for further discussion and research.
Online responses should only be used as a reference; it is essential to visit a medical institution for proper care.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of Urology, Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2013/06/18

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the small white bumps you have noticed around the glans of your penis. Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing a condition known as Pearly Penile Papules (PPP). This is a common and benign condition that affects many men, particularly those in their late teens to early adulthood.

Pearly Penile Papules are small, soft, dome-shaped bumps that typically appear in a single row around the corona (the ridge) of the glans. They are usually white or flesh-colored and can vary in size. Importantly, they are not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and are not caused by poor hygiene. Instead, they are a normal anatomical variation and are considered a harmless condition.

The exact cause of Pearly Penile Papules is not well understood, but they are thought to be related to the normal development of the skin and mucous membranes. They do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or psychological distress. In most cases, they do not pose any health risks and do not affect sexual function or fertility.

It is understandable to be concerned about any changes in your body, especially in sensitive areas. However, it is crucial to differentiate between benign conditions like PPP and potentially harmful conditions such as STIs or other dermatological issues. If you have been sexually active, it is always a good idea to get regular check-ups and screenings for STIs, especially if you notice any new or unusual symptoms.

If you are still uncertain about your condition or if the bumps change in appearance, become painful, or if you develop other symptoms such as itching or discharge, I recommend consulting a healthcare professional for a thorough examination. A dermatologist or urologist can provide a definitive diagnosis and help alleviate any concerns you may have.

In summary, Pearly Penile Papules are a common and benign condition that does not require treatment. They are not related to STIs or hygiene issues. However, if you have any lingering concerns or if your symptoms change, seeking medical advice is always a prudent step.

Best wishes for your health and well-being.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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