What causes red or white bumps on the penis?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have noticed some small bumps on my penis near the corona area of the shaft. These bumps appear to be either white or red in color. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

It appears to be Balanitis, characterized by inflammation, redness, and mild swelling of the glans. Another possibility could be Fordyce granules.

I would suggest the following steps for treatment:

Apply DK gel (Miconazole gel) at bedtime for 2 weeks or Fucidin (Fusidic acid) cream during the daytime for 7 days.
If there is redness or irritation, apply 1 percent hydrocortisone gel for 7 days.
If you experience itching, take one tablet of Allegra (Fexofenadine hydrochloride) after dinner for 7 days.

The swelling should subside with the above treatment.

There are several risk factors for Balanitis, including poor hygiene, being uncircumcised, excessive scratching and rubbing, allergic reactions to irritant soaps, sexually transmitted infections, uncontrolled diabetes, injury (such as from a zipper), autoimmune causes, and exposure to harsh chemicals.

To provide further guidance and preventive measures, please answer the following questions:

Do you have any pain or tenderness in the affected area?
Are you experiencing irritation?
Have you been handling the area roughly?
Do you have a history of atopy or eczema?
Are your genitals itchy?
Have you engaged in recent unprotected sexual intercourse?
Have you had any high-risk exposures?
Have you undergone any laboratory tests in the past, such as urine culture, microscopy, or STI profiles?
Have you used high-potency steroids in the past?

Please respond with this information for further evaluation.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

This does not appear to be a genital wart. It seems to be a collection of sebaceous gland debris with a mild secondary bacterial infection, likely due to improper hygiene. To prevent recurrent episodes, it is important to maintain proper hygiene, as cleanliness plays a crucial role in avoiding such issues. When applying medications, ensure that your hands are clean.

Regards.