Genital Warts

[drewnje]

I am 22 year old male who is sexually active. About 5 weeks ago I noticed a small oval spot on the head of my penis that not only seemed to be different in skin color but also texture.  The spot is a tad bit darker that the skin around it.  Recently another spot of the same shape and texture has appeared on the other side of my penis head although this one is white.  There are a few other spot that have the same texture appearance, but quite a bit smaller on the shaft as well.  They vary in color from flesh colored to white to almost greyish brown.  I am afraid they may be genital warts.  I have tried the vinegar test which had not reaction.  I also went to the local health department and had them look at them and the nurse said she did not think they were genital warts and may just be changes in the skin that can happen in young men and I shouldn't be too worried.  I am just very nervous.  They appear to be flat, but when the skin on the head is pulled tight they appear to be ever so slightly raised.  They can not be felt by hand and feel like normal skin.  They just appear different.  Almost like a dartboard with skin lines pointed toward the center of the spot.  If they are not warts then what could they possibly be. Because at this point I nervous and feel as if I certainly have genital warts although I have seen not pictures on the internet that look like what I have. Any information would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

They do not sound like warts--they did not react to vinegar, they are on the penis head, and they are mostly flat.  Also, a health professional has diagnosed them otherwise.

Having said all this, I can't diagnose them with certainty, as I'm sure you realize.  If the nurse's reassurance was insufficient, I guess you will need another opinion in person.

Take care.

Dr. Rockoff