Painful Lumps at the Base of the Penis: Causes and Concerns - Urology

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Hard lumps at the base of the penis?


Two months ago, a subcutaneous round lump approximately one centimeter in diameter was discovered at the base of the penis (near the pubic hair, slightly to the left).
It was painful when pressed, but after a few days, the lump remained but was no longer painful.
Recently, it disappeared, but another similar lump was found on the opposite side (slightly to the right).
What could this condition possibly be?

xxx, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/04

Dr. Li Xinyi reply Urology


It is recommended to see a urologist for an examination.

Reply Date: 2016/03/04

More Info


When it comes to painful lumps at the base of the penis, there are several potential causes that should be considered. Given your description of a hard lump that was initially painful but later became painless, and the subsequent appearance of a similar lump on the opposite side, it is important to explore various possibilities.

1. Sebaceous Cysts: These are common and often harmless lumps that can occur in the genital area. They are usually filled with a fatty substance and can become inflamed or infected, leading to pain. If the cysts are not infected, they may not cause any discomfort.

2. Lymphadenopathy: Swollen lymph nodes can sometimes present as lumps in the groin area. This could be a response to an infection or other inflammatory processes in the body. If the lumps are lymph nodes, they may be tender when swollen but can become painless as they resolve.

3. Peyronie's Disease: This condition involves the development of fibrous scar tissue inside the penis, which can cause lumps and may lead to curvature during erections. While it typically presents with pain during erections or sexual activity, it can also manifest as lumps.

4. Infections: Certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause lumps or lesions in the genital area. For example, herpes can lead to painful blisters or sores, while other infections may cause swelling of lymph nodes.

5. Tumors: While less common, both benign and malignant tumors can present as lumps in the genital area. If the lumps persist, change in size, or are accompanied by other symptoms (such as weight loss, fever, or changes in urination), it is crucial to seek medical evaluation.

6. Trauma or Injury: If there has been any recent trauma to the area, it could lead to localized swelling or hematomas, which may initially be painful but can resolve over time.

Given that you have noticed a change in the lumps, with one disappearing and another appearing, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough examination. They may recommend imaging studies or a biopsy if there is any concern about the nature of the lumps.
In the meantime, monitor for any additional symptoms such as fever, changes in urination, or any new lumps. Avoid any self-diagnosis or treatment without professional guidance, as this could lead to complications or mismanagement of the condition.

In summary, while there are several benign explanations for the lumps you are experiencing, it is essential to have them evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out any serious conditions and to receive appropriate management.

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