Could a lump on my penis shaft be a cyst or gland?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had a small lump on the skin of my penis shaft for about three to four weeks.

It started as a red pimple. It gets bigger with friction and smaller when I avoid touching it. It feels firm like a small ball inside when flaccid, but softer and smaller when erect. The surface skin is soft, and now the top looks slightly yellow.

There is no ulcer, no bleeding, and no foul smell. It is mostly painless. I am worried it might be a cyst or an inflamed gland.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Based on your description, the lump on your penis shaft seems most consistent with a benign, superficial lesion, likely a sebaceous cyst (a slow-growing, non-cancerous lump under the skin), an inflamed hair follicle or folliculitis (standard red, itchy bumps or pus-filled pimples), or an inflamed Tyson gland (a tender, swollen, pus-filled lump on the underside of the penis near the frenulum).

These typically start as small red bumps, enlarge with friction or manipulation, and can feel firm when flaccid but softer when erect. The slightly yellow top could be mild pustular inflammation, which is common in cysts or blocked sebaceous glands.

Since there is no ulceration, bleeding, foul smell, or significant pain, it is unlikely to be a sexually transmitted infection (an infection spread through sexual contact) or malignancy.

To provide a more accurate diagnosis, I need a clear picture of the affected area with the surrounding area covered for privacy.

Meanwhile, avoid touching, squeezing, or scratching the area to prevent further irritation or the development of a secondary infection. Maintain good hygiene with mild, non-irritating cleansers or simple soap. You may apply a warm compress for a few minutes, a couple of times a day, to help with drainage if the lump is painful.

To apply a topical antiseptic or antibiotic cream, I need to examine the affected area first.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.