White bumps on scrotum and shaft

[Steven__0]

  I have white bumps on my scrotum and various places on my penis.  I'm 19  and I've always noticed them.  They resemble small pimples yet dont seem to pop.  I've read somewhere that they might be hair folicles that didn't develope or somthing along those lines.  I also read that a physician could prescribe a gel or cream that would solve this problem.  Has any one heard of this?  Should I see a physician?
  Thanks .. Steven

[hfhs M.D.-AK]

Dear Steven,
Most likely you are describing normal sebaceous glands.  The fact that these white bumps don’t  “pop” means that they are not a true folliculitis or pimple.  There is a known normal condition that has pearly penile papules usually only around the glands or head of the penis but your situation does not sound as if that is the cause.  I think you have  a normal variant and just have prominent hair follicles.
The creams and gels you are referring to are topical antibiotics,these will only be effective if there is an infection causing the white bumps.  If you are still concerned you should first see your family doctor before seeing a urologist.
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.  More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568).
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-AK
*keyword:penile lesion