What causes white bumps on the foreskin of the penis?

Small white bumps on the foreskin of the penis may be related to pearly penile papules, sebaceous gland heterotopia, condyloma acuminata, folliculitis or fungal infection. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly for a clear diagnosis and avoid self-treatment.

1. Pearly penile papules

Pearly penile papules are a benign physiological phenomenon, appearing as white or skin-colored small papules arranged regularly around the coronal groove of the foreskin, without any pain or itching. It may be related to local hygiene conditions and excessive foreskin. Generally, no treatment is required. If it affects the appearance, laser or cryotherapy may be considered. It is necessary to keep the perineum clean and dry daily to avoid excessive friction and irritation.

2. Ectopia of sebaceous glands

Ectopia sebaceum is caused by abnormal development of sebaceous glands and manifests as scattered light yellow or white flat papules on the inner plate of the foreskin that feel granular to the touch. It mostly occurs in post-pubertal males and is related to changes in hormone levels. Usually no special treatment is required, but it needs to be differentiated from genital warts. Avoid scratching or using harsh cleaning products.

3. Genital warts

Genital warts are caused by human papillomavirus infection. They initially appear as white cauliflower-like growths that may be accompanied by itching or bleeding. It is a sexually transmitted disease and needs to be confirmed by acetic acid white test or pathological examination. Drugs such as podophyllotoxin tincture and imiquimod cream are commonly used in clinical treatment, and carbon dioxide laser can be used to remove stubborn cases. After diagnosis, sexual partners need to be screened simultaneously.

4. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is mostly caused by bacterial infection of hair follicles and manifests as red papules with white pus heads at the top, which are painful when pressed. It is common after shaving or in people with poor hygiene. Mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream can be used externally to fight infection. In severe cases, cefuroxime axetil tablets can be taken orally. You need to avoid scratching every day, wear breathable cotton underwear, and disinfect before shaving.

5. Fungal infection

Candida albicans infection may cause a white film or dense papules on the foreskin, accompanied by itching and scaling. It is more common in patients with diabetes or those with low immunity. The diagnosis requires microscopic examination of the fungus. Clotrimazole cream or miconazole nitrate powder can be applied externally, and fluconazole capsules are taken orally in patients with recurring attacks. Keep the area dry during treatment to avoid intrasexual transmission.

It is recommended to wash the perineum with warm water every day and avoid using alkaline lotions. Choose loose and breathable underwear to reduce local friction. If the white pimple continues to enlarge, rupture, or is accompanied by discharge, you need to see a dermatologist or urologist immediately. It is prohibited to squeeze or apply folk remedies on your own to avoid secondary infection or delay in treatment.