Common Glans Symptoms: Causes and Treatments

Symptoms of the glans penis?

Hello, Dr.
Lee.
I have a few questions that are seriously troubling me:
1.
When not erect, the glans has a slightly whitish and faintly purplish hue, with a ring-like area that is close to purple.
2.
When not erect, there are many tiny red spots, about 1mm in size, on the front and sides of the glans.
3.
When erect, there are small keratosis-like bumps on the front of the glans, causing an uneven surface.
Additional information: On June 22, I underwent sexually transmitted infection testing at a medical laboratory, and most results were negative except for Ureaplasma urealyticum, which was positive.
Shortly after receiving the report, I noticed symptoms of inflammation on the glans, but it improved after applying medication a few days ago.
I would appreciate your guidance, doctor!

Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/30

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

It is essential to understand that a simple description cannot determine a medical condition.
A thorough evaluation, including a medical history interview, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, is necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
It is still recommended to seek consultation and examination from a qualified physician.

Reply Date: 2015/07/30

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding the symptoms you are experiencing with your glans. It's important to address these issues comprehensively, as they can be indicative of various underlying conditions.

1. White and Purple Discoloration: The presence of a whitish or slightly purplish hue on the glans when not erect could be due to several factors. One possibility is a condition known as balanitis, which is inflammation of the glans. This can be caused by infections (including yeast infections or sexually transmitted infections), irritants (such as soaps or lotions), or even friction. The discoloration could also be related to blood flow changes or vascular issues, particularly if it appears more pronounced when the penis is not erect.

2. Small Red Dots: The small red spots you describe could be petechiae, which are tiny blood vessels that have burst, or they could be indicative of a condition like folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) or pustular psoriasis. Given your recent positive test for Ureaplasma urealyticum, it’s also possible that these spots are related to an infection or irritation stemming from that condition. Ureaplasma can cause urethritis and may lead to inflammation of the glans as well.

3. Bumps on the Glans: The "chicken skin" appearance you mention, which causes the surface to feel uneven, could be a normal anatomical variation, such as pearls of Fordyce, which are sebaceous glands that can appear as small bumps. However, if these bumps are new or have changed in appearance, it’s essential to have them evaluated. Other possibilities include pearly penile papules, which are harmless, or signs of a more serious condition that may require treatment.

Given your history of a positive test for Ureaplasma urealyticum, it’s crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. Ureaplasma can lead to various complications if left untreated, including chronic inflammation and potential fertility issues. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and it’s essential to ensure that any sexual partners are also treated to prevent reinfection.

Recommendations:
- Consult a Dermatologist or Urologist: Since you are experiencing multiple symptoms, a specialist can provide a thorough examination and possibly perform additional tests to rule out other infections or conditions.

- Maintain Hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry, and avoid irritants such as scented soaps or lotions.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the appearance of new spots, changes in color, or any discomfort. This information will be valuable for your healthcare provider.

- Follow Treatment Plans: If you have been prescribed medication for the Ureaplasma infection, ensure you complete the full course, even if symptoms improve.

In summary, while some of your symptoms may be benign, others could indicate an underlying issue that requires medical attention. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional advice to ensure your health and well-being. Thank you for sharing your concerns, and I hope you find relief soon!

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