and Treating White Bumps on the Glans Penis

There are a bunch of small white bumps located at the tip of the glans near the coronal sulcus?

Could you please ask the doctor??? I have small white bumps on the glans near the corona, and I'm wondering if there is a way to treat them??? They seem strange, and it looks like they are increasing in number.

onion, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/27

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

Common skin protrusions may be caused by keratin abnormal proliferation known as pearly penile papules, which appear as skin-colored or light brown, round, multiple small nodules resembling tiny beads, about the size of a pinhead.
These are primarily due to cystic retention of keratin in the upper dermis; they may also result from androgenic stimulation during puberty leading to sebaceous gland hyperplasia, ectopic sebaceous glands, or epidermal pigmentation.
However, pearly penile papules are white in appearance, while sebaceous gland hyperplasia appears yellow.
Typically, pearly penile papules do not require treatment.
Some may occur on the penis or right at the nipple.
Additionally, there are small papules referred to as penile pearly papules.
This condition does not affect your health or physiological function, and if asymptomatic, no treatment is necessary.
Approximately 10% of males may develop penile pearly papules.
These small papules are arranged in rows (circumferentially) along the coronal sulcus of the penis, ranging from the size of a pinhead to that of a grain of millet, and are skin-colored or light pink, not removable or scratchable, and are painless and itch-free, representing a benign skin condition.
The exact cause is still unclear; however, it does not impact the patient's overall health, urinary function, or sexual function, and is not contagious.
The color of penile pearly papules can be pink, white, or yellow, with transparent ones being less common.
Their size typically ranges from 1 to 2 millimeters in width and 1 to 4 millimeters in length, appearing as round papules arranged in single or double rows along the coronal sulcus of the penis.
They usually have no symptoms and are often discovered incidentally by the patient.
However, if there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or urologist.
Physicians often need to perform visual inspection, palpation, and history-taking to confirm the diagnosis, as pearly penile papules are not a disease.
Urologists have not developed treatments specifically for pearly penile papules, so if treatment is considered, please consult a dermatologist for advice.

Reply Date: 2015/07/27

More Info

When it comes to white bumps on the glans penis, there are several potential causes, and understanding these can help in determining the appropriate treatment. The condition you are describing could be related to a few different dermatological issues, and it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
One common cause of white bumps on the glans penis is Pearly Penile Papules (PPP). These are small, benign growths that are often found around the corona of the glans and are completely normal anatomical variations. They are not harmful and do not require treatment unless they cause psychological distress or discomfort.
Another possibility is Fordyce Spots, which are small, painless, pale bumps that are sebaceous glands that are visible through the skin. Like PPP, they are harmless and do not require treatment.

However, if the white bumps are new, changing in appearance, or associated with other symptoms such as itching, pain, or discharge, it could indicate a more serious condition. For instance, Pearly Penile Papules and Fordyce Spots are typically asymptomatic, but conditions like Pearly Penile Papules can sometimes be confused with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other dermatological conditions such as Lichen Planus or Genital Warts caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Treatment Options:
1. Observation: If the bumps are determined to be benign, no treatment may be necessary. Regular monitoring can be helpful to ensure that there are no changes in size, shape, or color.

2. Topical Treatments: If there is an underlying condition that requires treatment, topical medications may be prescribed. For example, if a fungal infection is suspected, antifungal creams may be recommended.

3. Cryotherapy or Laser Treatment: For cosmetic concerns or if the bumps are bothersome, procedures like cryotherapy or laser treatments can be performed to remove them.

4. Surgical Removal: In some cases, if the bumps are persistent and bothersome, a healthcare provider may recommend surgical removal.

5. Medication: If an infection or inflammatory condition is diagnosed, appropriate medications such as antibiotics or corticosteroids may be prescribed.

Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to consult a urologist or dermatologist who specializes in genital skin conditions. They can provide a thorough examination and may perform tests to rule out infections or other conditions.
In summary, while white bumps on the glans penis can often be benign, it is essential to seek medical advice, especially if there are changes in the bumps or associated symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can help alleviate any concerns and ensure proper care. Remember, self-diagnosis can lead to unnecessary anxiety, so professional evaluation is always the best course of action.

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