Painful Bump at the Base of the Penis: Causes and Symptoms - Urology

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The painful bump at the base of the penis, particularly located beneath the penis and above the scrotum, can be concerning and may arise from several potential causes. Understanding the symptoms and possible underlying conditions is crucial for appropriate management.


Possible Causes:
1. Pearly Penile Papules: These are small, benign bumps that appear around the corona of the glans penis. They are not painful and do not require treatment, but they can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions.

2. Folliculitis: This is an inflammation of the hair follicles, which can occur in the genital area. It may present as small, painful bumps and can be associated with redness and pus.

3. Cysts: Sebaceous cysts can form in the genital area and may become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and discomfort.

4. Infections: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as herpes or genital warts can cause painful lesions or bumps in the genital area. These infections may also present with other symptoms such as discharge, itching, or burning sensations.

5. Trauma or Injury: If there has been any recent trauma to the area, it could lead to localized swelling or a hematoma, which may be painful.

6. Penile Cancer: Although rare, a persistent bump that is painful and associated with bleeding or discharge should be evaluated for malignancy.


Symptoms to Monitor:
- Pain: The fact that the bump is painful, especially when touched or when pressure is applied, is significant. If the pain worsens or spreads, it may indicate an infection or more serious condition.


- Discharge: The presence of an unknown red liquid when applying pressure could suggest bleeding or infection. This is particularly concerning if it is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or systemic illness.

- Changes in Size or Appearance: If the bump grows larger, changes color, or develops additional symptoms (such as fever, chills, or systemic symptoms), it warrants immediate medical attention.


Recommended Actions:
1. Seek Medical Evaluation: It is essential to consult a healthcare provider, preferably a urologist, for a thorough examination. They may perform a physical examination and possibly order tests such as a swab for STIs, ultrasound, or biopsy if necessary.

2. Avoid Self-Diagnosis: While it may be tempting to search online for answers, self-diagnosis can lead to unnecessary anxiety or mismanagement of the condition.

3. Maintain Hygiene: Keeping the area clean and dry can help prevent further irritation or infection.

4. Avoid Irritants: Refrain from using harsh soaps or products that may irritate the area until a diagnosis is made.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in the bump, pain levels, or additional symptoms, and report these to your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while there are several benign explanations for a painful bump at the base of the penis, it is crucial to rule out more serious conditions. Prompt medical evaluation is the best course of action to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.