“Granules – small white spots or pimples on the penis” can refer to a few different, often harmless, conditions. It’s important to understand the common causes, as well as when you should be concerned and seek medical advice.
Here are the most common causes of small white spots or pimples on the penis:
- Pearly Penile Papules (PPP): These are very common, harmless, and benign (non-cancerous) small, dome-shaped, or finger-like bumps that usually appear in one or more rows around the base of the glans (head) of the penis. They can be white, yellowish, or pinkish and often appear during or after puberty. They are not an STI, not contagious, and do not require treatment, though some individuals may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.
- Fordyce Spots: These are visible sebaceous (oil) glands that are not associated with hair follicles. They can appear as small, white, yellow, or flesh-colored spots on the shaft or head of the penis, as well as on the lips and inside the cheeks. They are a normal anatomical variation, present in a large percentage of the population, and are harmless, non-contagious, and typically don’t require treatment. They may become more noticeable when the skin is stretched, such as during an erection.
- Tyson Glands: These are small sebaceous glands that can form on either side of the frenulum (the elastic tissue connecting the foreskin to the head of the penis). They appear as small yellow or white bumps and are considered normal structures and are harmless.
- Pimples/Whiteheads: Just like anywhere else on the body, the skin on the penis can develop pimples or whiteheads if pores become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria. These are typically harmless and will resolve on their own. It’s important not to pick or squeeze them, as this can lead to irritation, infection, or scarring.
When to be concerned and see a doctor:
While most of these “granules” are benign, it’s crucial to see a doctor if you experience any of the following, as they could indicate a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or another more serious condition:
- Painful blisters, bumps, or ulcers: This could be a sign of herpes or syphilis.
- Genital warts: These are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear as small, flesh-colored, or white bumps that sometimes resemble tiny cauliflower heads. They can be hard to see and may not be painful.
- Discharge from the bumps or from your penis.
- Itchiness that is persistent or severe.
- Bleeding from the bumps.
- Changes in the size, shape, or color of existing spots.
- Bumps that don’t go away after a few weeks or worsen.
- Pain or burning during urination.
A healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the cause of any bumps on your penis and recommend appropriate treatment if necessary. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and get any concerning skin changes checked out by a doctor.
