raised lesions on penile shaft

[coolcat555]

Hello Dr.  

I would first like to start off by stating that I am a healthy 20 year old male virgin. (I do not have any immunodeficiency disorders of any kind).  Since I could remember, I have noticed that my penile shaft has had tiny (size of a pinpoint) raised, flat, pink lesions.  And to my knowledge these lesions have never disappeared.  They tend to grow in clusters and have always sprouted more and more lesions. One clutch of lesions lies directly over a small vein. I am unsure as to what these lesions are and am hesitant in having intercourse for fear of passing an infection on to my girlfriend.  Could one acquire an HPV infection prior to sexual contact?  If not, then what could this "affliction" be?  (genital warts?)  I have searched for images similar to what I have but to no avail.  

And what could be done about these lesions?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

This could be fordyce spots.

Fordyce's spots, or Fordyce granules are small, painless, raised, pale or white spots or bumps 1 to 3 mm in diameter that may appear on the shaft of the penis or on the labia, as well as the inner surface and vermilion border of the lips of the face. They are common in men and women of all ages.

The spots are a form of ectopic sebaceous gland, and are not known to be associated with any disease or illness and are of cosmetic concern only. They are non-infectious and a natural occurrence on the body.

Although no treatment is required, those with the condition can choose to apply Tretinoin gel or cream to the affected areas each day. This can reverse the effects of the condition over time and prevent it from getting any worse. To get the best results from Tretinoin one should use it along with alpha hydroxy acid agents which are normally used to treat acne.

Let us know if you need any other information and post us about what the skin specialist advises.

Regards.

[seanjohn72]

I think we ar talking about the same thing.. if you have any pics or advice please share it eith me.. I am 36 and since mine started, they haven't gottten any better.  I have them between my eyelid and eyebrow as well. They look exactly the same.  I knkow haw you feel.. please keep in touch... stressed out

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

This could be - pearly penile papules or Fordyce
spots. You would need to consult your doctor for a confirmed diagnosis.

'Pearly penile papules are multiple, small (about 1-3mm) papules running around the circumference of the crown of the glans penis. They typically develop in men aged 20 to 40, and around 10 per cent of all men are affected. They may be mistaken for warts, are not infectious and require no treatment.'

'Fordyce spots are small (1-5mm) bright red or purple papules that can appear on the glans, shaft or scrotum and usually affect younger men. They may occur as a solitary lesion, but frequently appear in crops of 50 to 100. They are painless and not itchy, but may cause embarrassment because of their appearance, or a fear that they might be sexually transmitted. '

Let us know if you need any further information.

Post us about what your doctor advises.

Regards.