White spots on penis

Hoping you can help me.

I noticed about a month ago a White patch at the base of my penis.  Wasn't too worried as I thought it would go away.  Today I noticed another white patch just below the head of my penis.  I'm a cut male so didn't realize the white patch until i had an erection.  Please advise.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

I really can't say much without seeing it.  You need to see a health care provider; if you don't have a regular one, perhaps call a dermatologist.  Anyway, doesn't sound much like an STD.

Good luck-- HHH, MD

[Sarah_C]

If the white patches are flat and not irritated, it's possible they are a condition called vitiligo, which is simply a loss of skin pigmentation affecting about 1% of people. The penis is a common site for vitiligo.

If this is what is causing the white patches on your genitals, there is no danger from the condition (except that the white places are more susceptible to sunburn), and there are some treatments available.

Remember to check back and see what the doctor says though, I am only an interested amateur.