Yellow Bumps on the Glans: Causes and Concerns

There are bumps on the glans?

Yesterday, while showering, I retracted my foreskin and noticed a yellowish, unidentified bump about the size of half a grain of rice located just below the glans (near the urethral opening).
There is no pain, itching, redness, or ulceration.
Since I am unsure when this bump appeared, I am concerned about any potential effects and would like to understand what might be causing this issue.
Thank you.

123, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/25

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 be influenced by 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 is yellow.
Typically, there is no need for treatment of pearly penile papules.
Some may occur on the penis or directly on the nipples.
Additionally, there are small papules referred to as pearly penile papules.
This condition does not affect your health or physiological function, and if asymptomatic, no treatment is necessary.
Approximately 10% of males may develop pearly penile 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.
They cannot be washed or scraped off, are painless and itch-free, and represent a benign skin condition.
The exact cause remains unclear; however, they do not affect the patient's overall health, urinary function, or sexual function, and are not contagious.
The color of pearly penile papules can be pink, white, yellow, with transparent ones being less common.
They typically measure 1-2 mm in width and 1-4 mm in length, appearing as round papules arranged in single or double rows along the coronal sulcus of the penis.
Usually asymptomatic, most patients discover them incidentally.
However, if there are any concerns, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or urologist.
Physicians often need to perform visual inspection, palpation, and take a history 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 further inquiry.

Reply Date: 2015/09/25

More Info

Yellow bumps on the glans, particularly when they are small, painless, and not associated with any other symptoms such as itching, redness, or ulceration, can often be benign. However, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical advice.

One common cause of yellow bumps on the glans is the presence of pearly penile papules. These are small, dome-shaped bumps that are typically found around the corona of the glans and are completely normal anatomical variations. They are not infectious, do not require treatment, and are often mistaken for a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or other pathological conditions.

Another possibility is the presence of sebaceous cysts. These cysts occur when sebaceous glands become clogged, leading to the formation of small, painless lumps filled with sebum. They can appear anywhere on the body, including the genital area, and are generally harmless.

Additionally, Fordyce spots are another benign condition that can present as small yellow or white bumps on the glans. These are ectopic sebaceous glands that are not associated with hair follicles and are also considered a normal variant.

While the above conditions are typically harmless, it is crucial to consider other potential causes. For instance, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as genital warts (caused by the human papillomavirus) or molluscum contagiosum can also present with similar symptoms. These conditions may require medical evaluation and treatment.

If the yellow bump changes in size, color, or becomes painful, or if you develop other symptoms such as discharge, fever, or systemic symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and may recommend further testing if necessary to rule out any serious conditions.

In summary, while yellow bumps on the glans can be benign and often do not require treatment, it is essential to monitor any changes and consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns. Regular self-examination and awareness of your body can help you identify any changes early on, ensuring prompt medical evaluation when necessary. Remember that maintaining good hygiene and safe sexual practices is vital for overall genital health.

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