What are the small fleshy pellets on the glans penis?

Small fleshy particles growing on the glans may be a symptom of diseases such as pearly penile papules, condyloma acuminata, ectopic sebaceous glands, molluscum contagiosum, or lichen planus. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly for a clear diagnosis and avoid self-treatment.

1. Pearly penile papules

Pearly penile papules are benign hyperplasia, which appear as small white or skin-colored papules arranged regularly in the coronal groove of the glans penis. They are painless and itchy. It may be related to local irritation or abnormal physiological development and does not require special treatment. If it affects the appearance, it can be removed by laser or freezing. It is necessary to keep the perineum clean and dry daily and avoid excessive friction.

2. Genital warts

Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus infection and appear as cauliflower- or papillary growths that can be spread through sexual contact. You need to use imiquimod cream, podophyllotoxin tincture and other drugs as directed by your doctor, or use carbon dioxide laser treatment. Sexual intercourse is prohibited during treatment, and partners need to be checked simultaneously.

3. Ectopia of sebaceous glands

Ectopia sebaceum is the abnormal distribution of sebaceous glands in the mucosa, manifesting as yellow or pale white granular protrusions, commonly found on the inside of the foreskin. It is a physiological variation and generally does not require treatment. Pay daily attention to avoid local chemical irritation, such as shower gel residue, which may aggravate symptoms.

4. Molluscum contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by poxvirus infection and appears as waxy, hemispherical papules with an umbilical depression in the center. It can be transmitted through direct contact, and a doctor needs to use tweezers to remove the wart or apply retinoic acid cream externally. The patient's clothing needs to be washed and disinfected separately to avoid scratching which may lead to auto-inoculation.

5. Lichen planus

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. Purple-red flat papules may appear on the glans area, accompanied by reticular white lines. It may be related to immune abnormalities, and topical fluticasone propionate cream is required to control inflammation. Avoid spicy food and conduct regular check-ups to monitor changes in the condition.

It is recommended to choose cotton breathable underwear to avoid sitting in a humid environment for a long time. Use warm water when cleaning, do not use strong alkaline soap. If the small fleshy particles enlarge, rupture, or are accompanied by secretions within a short period of time, you should seek immediate medical attention from a dermatology or urology department. It is forbidden to self-medicate or pick at the disease before diagnosis to prevent secondary infection or delay in treatment.