Pearly Penile Papules and Fordyce Spots: A Guide

Pearly penile papules & Fordyce spots

Hello Doctor: I noticed two to three small white spots in the groove of my glans while showering, with two on the left and one on the right.
They are not painful or itchy, and they are arranged neatly along the groove.
They have been present for almost two years, and their size has not changed.
I researched online, and they seem similar to penile pearly papules.
Since I have not been circumcised, my foreskin is a bit long, and I expose the glans for cleaning during showers, but I retract it before it dries.
I have been concerned about the possibility of genital warts since I have had warts on my hands before.
Additionally, there are nearly ten whitish bumps, about 1 mm in size, on the inner side of the foreskin, covering an area of approximately 25-36 square millimeters.
These have also been present for over a year and are not painful or itchy.
Could these be Fordyce spots?

Bao Bo, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/07/14

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology

Hello, it is impossible to make a judgment or diagnosis in this manner.
There are numerous skin lesions, and a simple description is insufficient for diagnosis.
It is recommended 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 can only serve as a reference; it is essential to visit a medical facility for proper care.
This message is from Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2013/07/14

More Info

Pearly penile papules (PPP) and Fordyce spots are two common conditions that can appear on the penis, and they are often a source of concern for many men. Understanding these conditions can help alleviate anxiety and clarify what they are and what they are not.

Pearly Penile Papules (PPP) are small, dome-shaped, white or skin-colored bumps that typically appear around the corona (the ridge) of the glans (the head of the penis). They are usually arranged in a single or double row and can vary in number from a few to several dozen. PPP is a normal anatomical variant and is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a sign of any disease. They are benign and do not require treatment unless they cause psychological distress to the individual. The exact cause of PPP is not well understood, but they are thought to be related to the normal development of the penis.

On the other hand, Fordyce spots are small, painless, pale bumps that can appear on the shaft of the penis, as well as on the lips and inside the cheeks. These spots are sebaceous glands that are not associated with hair follicles, and they are completely normal. Fordyce spots are also benign and do not require treatment. They can be more noticeable in some individuals, especially if they have lighter skin, but they are not harmful and do not indicate any underlying health issues.

In your case, the small white bumps you described along the groove of the glans, which have been present for nearly two years without any changes in size or discomfort, are likely to be pearly penile papules. The fact that they are not painful or itchy and have remained consistent over time supports this possibility.
Regarding the white spots on the inner foreskin, if they are small, painless, and have been present for over a year, they could also be Fordyce spots. However, if you have any doubts or if there are changes in appearance, size, or if you experience any discomfort, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation.

It's understandable to be concerned about conditions like genital warts (caused by the human papillomavirus, HPV), especially if you have a history of warts on your hands. However, the characteristics of PPP and Fordyce spots differ significantly from those of warts. Warts typically have a rough surface and can be painful or itchy, while PPP and Fordyce spots are smooth and asymptomatic.

In summary, both pearly penile papules and Fordyce spots are common, benign conditions that do not require treatment. They are not sexually transmitted infections and do not pose any health risks. If you are still feeling uncertain or anxious about your symptoms, I recommend visiting a healthcare provider or a dermatologist who can provide reassurance and, if necessary, a thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pearly Penile Papules vs. Fordyce Spots: Key Differences and Removal Options

In January of this year, while showering, I noticed some granular, pimple-like bumps on the front of the frenulum of my penis. They do not merge together but rather grow in a distinct arrangement. The next day, I visited a doctor who said that this is not genital warts. I have no...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: Both are rash-like symptoms, and without examination in this facility, a diagnosis cannot be made. If you wish to remove them, what would be the best method? → There is no need to remove them. If you want to confirm, it is recommended to consult a urologist at a hospital. ...

Natural Recovery and Treatment Options for Pearly Penile Papules and Fordyce Spots

1. Can pearly penile papules and Fordyce spots naturally resolve in a dry environment? 2. Can ointments treat these two conditions? If so, what ointments are suitable?

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: 1) It will only improve, not completely disappear. 2) You need to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis; we cannot provide recommendations without an examination. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Pearly Penile Papules: What You Need to Know

Hello Doctor, I consulted a urologist regarding whether I should undergo circumcision. The doctor said it wasn't necessary since I can retract my foreskin, but I have a little smegma that I should clean better. There is also a small bump on my penis that the doctor said is j...

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology
Hello: The skin naturally has various differences, so there is no need to worry unless there is an increase in size or number. If you are concerned, you can have a check-up at a major hospital's urology department, and that will put your mind at ease. Wishing you good health...

Understanding Pearly Penile Papules vs. Warts: A Urology Perspective

I have a habit of masturbation, but recently I've noticed some neatly arranged white spots on my foreskin, as well as some irregular white spots. There are also some small red spots at the junction of the glans and the foreskin that don't look very uniform. They disappe...

Dr. Pan Zhenqin reply Urology
Based on your description, it should not be a cauliflower. However, a definitive diagnosis can only be made after an actual examination in the clinic.