Lump on Your Penis? 10 Common Causes Explained

Key Takeaways

• Variety of Causes: Penile lumps can arise from skin irritation, infections, STIs, and benign skin conditions, often not serious.
• Self-Examination: Regular checks are advised to spot changes; seek medical help if experiencing pain, bleeding, or discharge.
• Treatment Options: Many penile lumps don’t need treatment, but options exist for those causing discomfort or concern.
• STIs as a Cause: STIs like genital warts, herpes, and syphilis can lead to penile lumps, highlighting the need for safe sex and prompt treatment.

Penile lumps are a common concern for many men, often causing worry and anxiety. While discovering a lump on the penile shaft can be alarming, it’s important to recognize that these occurrences are frequently benign and can stem from a variety of sources.

Understanding Lumps and Bumps on the Penis

Lumps and bumps on the penis can be a cause for concern, but they are not always a sign of a serious condition. There are various reasons why lumps and bumps may appear on the penis, including skin irritation, infections, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).^[1] It is essential to monitor any changes in the appearance or texture of the penis and seek medical attention if you notice any unusual growths or symptoms.

Lumps and bumps on the penis can appear due to various reasons, including:

• Skin irritation: Skin irritation can cause bumps or lumps on the penis. This can be due to friction during sexual activity, tight clothing, or poor hygiene.
• Infections: Infections can cause lumps or bumps on the penis. These can be bacterial, fungal, or viral infections. Some common infections that can cause lumps or bumps on the penis include genital warts, herpes, and syphilis.
• STIs: STIs can cause lumps or bumps on the penis. These can be bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections. Some common STIs that can cause lumps or bumps on the penis include genital warts, herpes, and syphilis.
• Skin conditions: Skin conditions can cause lumps or bumps on the penis. These can be non-cancerous or cancerous. Some common skin conditions that can cause lumps or bumps on the penis include pearly penile papules, Fordyce spots, angiokeratomas, and lichen planus.

It is recommended to perform regular self-examinations of the penis to monitor any changes in its appearance or texture. If you notice any unusual growths, bumps, or lumps on the penis, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and early detection of any serious conditions.It is also crucial to seek medical help promptly in case of serious symptoms or concerns, such as pain, bleeding, or discharge.

Common Causes of Penile Lumps

Penile Blemishes

Penile blemishes are common and can appear due to various reasons. They are usually harmless and do not require medical attention. However, it is essential to monitor any changes in the appearance or texture of the penis and seek medical advice if you notice any unusual growths or symptoms.

Common blemishes on the penis include:

• Skin tags: These are small, benign growths that can appear on the penis. They are usually flesh-colored and can be removed if they cause discomfort.
• Ingrown hairs: Ingrown hairs can cause redness, swelling, and itching on the penis. They can be caused by shaving or waxing the pubic area.^[2]

• White Bumps on the Penile Head

White bumps on the penile head can be caused by various factors, including skin irritation, infection, or non-cancerous skin conditions. One common condition that can cause white bumps on the penile head is Fordyce spots.^[3]

• Fordyce Spots:

They are usually harmless and do not require medical attention. However, they can be a cause of concern for some individuals.

1. Appearance: Fordyce spots are small, yellowish bumps that can appear on the penile shaft. They are usually not painful and do not cause any discomfort.
2. Symptoms: Fordyce spots do not cause any symptoms and are usually not a cause for concern. However, some individuals may experience anxiety or self-consciousness about their appearance.
3. Causes: Fordyce spots are caused by the sebaceous glands, which produce oil to keep the skin moisturized. They are not caused by poor hygiene or infection.
4. Treatment Options: Fordyce spots do not require any treatment, as they are harmless and do not cause any discomfort. However, some individuals may choose to have them removed for cosmetic reasons.

Penile blemishes are common and usually harmless. It is essential to monitor any changes in the appearance or texture of the penis and seek medical advice if you notice any unusual growths or symptoms. Fordyce spots are a common cause of white bumps on the penile head and are usually harmless.

Penile Moles

The characteristics and identification of moles on the penis are important to understand. Moles on the penis are typically small, round, and brown or black in color. They can be flat or raised and are usually harmless. However, it’s essential to differentiate them from other conditions and seek medical advice if there are any changes in their appearance.^[4]

Appearance:

Penile moles are small, round, and brown or black in color. They can be flat or raised.

Symptoms:

Moles on the penis usually do not cause any symptoms. However, if a mole changes in size, shape, or color, or if it becomes itchy, painful, or starts bleeding, it’s important to seek medical attention.

Causes:

The exact cause of moles on the penis is not fully understood. They are generally caused by the clustering of melanocytes, the cells that produce pigment in the skin.

Treatment Options:

Most penile moles do not require treatment. However, if a mole shows any suspicious changes, a doctor may recommend a biopsy to rule out any potential concerns.

It’s important to note that self-diagnosis of penile moles is not recommended. Any concerns about moles on the penis should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.^[5]

Pearly Penile Papules

Pearly penile papules (PPP) are typically form in rows around the sulcus or corona of the glans penis. They are a normal anatomical variant and are not caused by sexual activity or poor hygiene.

Appearance:

Pearly penile papules are small, dome-shaped, and skin-colored. They typically form in rows around the sulcus or corona of the glans penis. They may appear as a single or double row of bumps and often have a pearly or translucent appearance.

Symptoms:

Pearly penile papules are usually asymptomatic and painless. They do not cause any itching, burning, or other discomfort. It’s essential to differentiate them from other conditions such as genital warts, which may have a similar appearance but are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV).

Causes:

The exact cause of pearly penile papules is not known. They are considered a normal variant of the penile skin and are not associated with sexual activity or poor hygiene. It’s important to note that they are not a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and are not contagious.

Treatment Options:

Pearly penile papules are benign and typically do not require treatment. However, if they cause significant psychological distress or anxiety, various treatment options such as carbon dioxide laser therapy, cryotherapy, or electrosurgery can be considered. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss the most appropriate treatment approach.

Fordyce Spots

Fordyce spots are small, harmless, and painless white or yellowish bumps that can appear on the penis, scrotum, or lips. They are caused by the overgrowth of sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing oil to lubricate the skin.

Appearance

Fordyce spots are small, white or yellowish bumps that can appear on the penis, scrotum, or lips. They are typically painless and do not cause any itching or burning. They are caused by the overgrowth of sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing oil to lubricate the skin.

Symptoms

Fordyce spots are usually asymptomatic and do not cause any discomfort. They are not contagious and are not associated with sexual activity or poor hygiene.

Causes

The exact cause of Fordyce spots is not known. They are considered a normal variant of the skin and are not harmful. They are more common in men than women and tend to appear during puberty or early adulthood.

Treatment Options

Fordyce spots are benign and typically do not require treatment. However, if they cause significant psychological distress or anxiety, various treatment options such as carbon dioxide laser therapy, electrosurgery, or topical retinoids can be considere.^[7] It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss the most appropriate treatment approach.

Penile Angiokeratomas

Penile angiokeratomas are benign vascular lesions that typically appear as small, multiple, dark spots on the glans penis or penile skin.They range in size from 0.5 to 5 millimeters and are often managed through observation, as they are generally asymptomatic.However, for lesions that are cosmetically undesirable or symptomatic, multiple treatment modalities are available.

Appearance and Symptoms

Penile angiokeratomas are characterized by ectatic blood vessels in the upper dermis, which may be thrombotic in some cases.The lesions are often asymptomatic, but they can cause cosmetic concerns or bleeding.In some cases, the blood vessels are bordered by an extension of the epidermis, forming an “epidermal collarette”.^[8]

Causes and Treatment Options:

The pathogenesis of penile angiokeratomas remains to be definitively established, but proposed hypotheses include congenital defects in venule walls and acquired injury to vessels.Treatment options for penile angiokeratomas include observation, laser treatment, excision, cryotherapy, electrocoagulation, sclerotherapy, and surgical excision.The choice of treatment depends on the size, location, and severity of the lesions, as well as the patient’s preferences and concerns.^[9]

In some cases, palliative management with emollients may be recommended for patients who prefer not to undergo treatment.Laser treatment, such as pulsed dye laser (595-nm variable pulsed), has been used to treat a significant portion of penile angiokeratomas. However, recurrence rates after treatment vary, with some studies reporting a 10% recurrence rate after therapy.

Penile Lymphoceles

Penile lymphoceles are lumps or cysts that develop on the penis due to blockages in the lymph channels, which carry clear lymph fluid throughout the body to help the immune system. They are often self-limiting and may resolve on their own without specific treatment.

In many cases, penile lymphoceles are asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any noticeable symptoms or functional impairment. They may be discovered incidentally during self-examination or routine medical examinations.

Self-care tips for penile lymphoceles include:

• Observation: Small, asymptomatic lymphoceles may be monitored over time without immediate intervention
• Aspiration: In some cases, aspiration of the lymphocele may be recommended to relieve discomfort or improve appearance.

Appearance, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Penile lymphoceles can cause swelling or enlargement of the entire penile shaft, leading to penile deformity, discomfort, or difficulties with sexual function.

Diagnosing these lymphoceles may involve a combination of physical examination, imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI, and clinical evaluation by a healthcare professional.^[10]

Treatment options for lymphoceles within the penile tissue can include:

• Conservative management: Small, asymptomatic lymphoceles may be monitored over time without immediate intervention.
• Aspiration: Aspiration of the lymphocele may be recommended to relieve discomfort or improve appearance.
• Surgical excision: In some cases, surgical excision may be necessary to remove the lymphocele.

Lumps on Penis caused by STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to a variety of symptoms, including the development of lumps or bumps on the penis. These infections can have significant implications for sexual and reproductive health. It is essential to understand the characteristics, transmission, and treatment options for STIs that cause penile lumps or bumps, such as genital warts (condyloma), genital herpes, and syphilis.

Genital Warts (Condyloma)

Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and typically appear as small, flesh-colored bumps or growths on the genital area, including the penis. They can be flat or raised and may occur singly or in clusters. Genital warts are usually painless but can cause itching, discomfort, or bleeding during sexual activity. The transmission of genital warts generally occurs through sexual contact with an infected individual. Treatment options for genital warts include topical creams, cryotherapy, surgical removal, or other medical procedures.^[11]

Other STIs Causing Lumps or Bumps

In addition to genital warts, other STIs such as genital herpes and syphilis can also cause lumps or sores on the penis.^[12] Genital herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus, can lead to the development of itchy, painful blisters on the penis. Syphilis, another STI, can cause painless sores or ulcers on the penis in the early stages of infection.

It is crucial to be aware of the symptoms associated with these STIs and to seek medical attention if any unusual lumps, bumps, sores, or other manifestations are observed on the penis. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for effectively managing STIs and their associated symptoms, as well as preventing further transmission.

Penile Lichen Planus

Penile lichen planus is a chronic, inflammatory condition that can affect the skin of the penis, causing various symptoms and discomfort.

Appearance

Genital lichen planus, including its manifestation on the male genitalia, can present as dusky reddish-brown papules and plaques without scaling. The typical flat-topped, polygonal, violaceous, pruritic, and shiny papules are seldom seen over the genitalia. It may also present as annular, with violaceus to white edges and a hyperpigmented center. Arciform and streak-like patterns can also be observed.^[13]

Symptoms

Penile lichen planus may cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Itching
• Pain
• Burning
• Soreness
• Pruritus
• Contact/post-coital bleeding.
• Dyspareunia
• Discharge

Causes

The exact cause of lichen planus is not well understood. It is believed to be an autoimmune disease, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the skin and mucous membranes. It can also be a reaction to certain medications.

Diagnosis

Lichen planus is often diagnosed clinically, but a skin biopsy is often recommended to confirm the diagnosis and to look for cancer. The histopathological signs are of a lichenoid tissue reaction affecting the epidermis. Typical features include irregularly thickened epidermis, wedge-shaped hyper granulosis, and ‘saw-tooth’ shaped rete ridges.

Treatment Options

• General Measures: Avoid soaps and shower gels that exacerbate scaling, use emollients regularly, and consider sedating antihistamines for troublesome nocturnal itch.
• Topical Steroids: Form the mainstay of treatment. For nonerosive disease, a mid-potency steroid given once a day is effective. For erosive disease, potent steroids are used.
• Other Medications: Anecdotal success is reported from long courses of antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole, sulfasalazine), antifungals (such as griseofulvin), and JAK inhibitors.^[14]

Peyronie’s Disease

Peyronie’s disease is a condition that affects the penis, causing it to become curved or bent during an erection. This condition is caused by the buildup of scar tissue in the penis, which can lead to pain, discomfort, and difficulty with sexual intercourse. Peyronie’s disease is more common in men over the age of 40, and it may also be associated with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.^[15]

Appearance and Symptoms

The appearance of Peyronie’s disease is characterized by a curvature or bend in the penis during an erection. The curvature can be upward, downward, or to either side. In some cases, the curvature may be severe enough to make sexual intercourse difficult or impossible. Other symptoms of Peyronie’s disease may include pain during an erection, a lump or plaque in the penis, and erectile dysfunction.

Causes

The exact cause of Peyronie’s disease is not known, but it is believed to be related to trauma or injury to the penis. This can include repeated bending or hitting of the penis during sexual activity, as well as other types of traumas. Peyronie’s disease may also be associated with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Diagnosis

A healthcare provider can diagnose Peyronie’s disease by performing a physical exam and asking about symptoms. Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or X-ray, may also be used to diagnose the condition.

Treatment Options

There are several treatment options available for Peyronie’s disease, depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, treatment may not be necessary, and the condition may resolve on its own over time. In more severe cases, treatment options may include medication, such as collagenase injections, or surgery to remove the scar tissue and straighten the penis.

In addition to medical treatment, there are also several lifestyle changes that may help to manage the symptoms of Peyronie’s disease. These may include avoiding activities that may cause further trauma to the penis, such as rough sexual activity, and using a penis extender or vacuum device to help straighten the penis during an erection.

Overall, Peyronie’s disease can have a significant impact on sexual health and quality of life. It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of Peyronie’s disease, to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Penile Cancer

Penile cancer is a rare condition that requires early detection for successful treatment. The importance of early detection lies in the fact that penile cancer is more treatable when found early.^[16] Symptoms of penile cancer may include a growth or sore on the penis, changes in the color of the skin, and persistent discharge or bleeding. There are different types of penile cancer, including invasive penile cancer, which has grown deeper into the penis, and penile intraepithelial neoplasia (PeIN), which is cancer in the top layers of the skin.

Treatment Options:

• Early Cancer: Treatment for early cancer often involves non-surgical treatments such as chemotherapy creams like 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), laser therapy, and cold therapy to destroy the cancer cells. If the cancer is found later, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy.
• Invasive Penile Cancer: Surgery is the main treatment for cancer that has grown deeper into the penis. Treatment may involve removing part or all the penis, depending on the stage of the cancer.
• Non-Surgical Treatments: Non-surgical treatments for early cancer may include chemotherapy creams, laser therapy, and cold therapy to freeze the cancer cells. These treatments aim to destroy the cancer cells without the need for surgery.
• Supportive Care: Support during treatment is essential and may include regular check-ups, tests, and scans. A specialist team of doctors, nurses, and other health professionals will explain the treatments and provide support throughout the process.

Causes and Risk Factors

The causes of penile cancer are not fully understood, but certain risk factors such as HPV infection, smoking, and poor genital hygiene may increase the risk.

Treatment of Advanced Stages

For advanced stages of penile cancer, treatment may include a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may be given to shrink the cancer before surgery. Supportive and palliative care are also important to help relieve symptoms and side effects.

When to Seek Medical Help

Recognizing serious symptoms and seeking timely medical consultation are crucial in the context of penile cancer. Patients with this condition often delay seeking medical attention due to embarrassment, guilt, fear, and denial. It’s important to recognize that early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment. Symptoms such as a growth or sore on the penis, changes in the color of the skin, and persistent discharge or bleeding should prompt immediate medical consultation.

The delay in seeking medical attention may also be due to attempts at self-medication with lotions or creams before seeing a doctor. Therefore, it is essential to overcome any reluctance and consult a healthcare professional promptly if there is any concern about a possible penile lesion.^[17]

Importance of Timely Medical Consultation

The delay in seeking medical attention for penile cancer can have significant implications for the prognosis. While early-stage penile cancer has a good outcome, advanced stages have a very poor prognosis. Therefore, timely consultation with a healthcare provider is essential for timely diagnosis, staging, and initiation of appropriate treatment.

Guidelines for Recognizing Serious Symptoms

It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of penile cancer, which may include:

• A persistent lump or growth on the penis.
• Changes in the color of the skin of the penis.
• Persistent discharge or bleeding from the penis.
• Ulcer or sore on the penis that does not heal.
• Changes in the skin of the penis, such as redness or a rash.

If any of these symptoms are noticed, it is important to seek medical advice promptly. The role of healthcare professionals, including urologists, in the early diagnosis and management of penile cancer is critical for improving the outcomes for individuals affected by this condition.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnostic Procedures

• Physical Examination: A healthcare professional will conduct a thorough physical examination of the penile lump to assess its characteristics, such as size, texture, and color.
• Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be recommended to obtain a tissue sample from the lump for further analysis. This procedure helps determine the nature of the lump, whether it is benign or malignant.

Common Treatment Options

• Observation: For certain lumps, especially those with a low likelihood of being harmful, a “wait and see” approach may be advised to monitor any changes over time.
• Medications: Depending on the diagnosis, medications such as antibiotics, antivirals, or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to address the underlying cause of the lump.
• Surgical Removal: If the lump is deemed problematic or potentially cancerous, surgical excision may be recommended to remove it entirely.
• Cryotherapy and Laser Therapy: These methods involve the use of extreme cold or high-intensity light to destroy abnormal tissue, and they may be considered for specific types of penile lumps.^[18]

It is necessary to differentiate between normal anatomical variants and pathological conditions. A thorough history and physical examination is required, with attention to previous sexual history, including contraceptive use and any previous sexually transmitted infections. Other useful information includes previous tobacco and drug use, circumcision status, and associated sexual and urinary symptomatology.

Prevention and Self-Care 

Prevention and self-care are essential for maintaining genital health and preventing common causes of lumps on the penis. Here are some tips to follow:

• Practice safe sex: Use condoms during sexual activity to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can cause penile lumps.
• Maintain good hygiene: Keep the genital area clean and dry to prevent bacterial and fungal infections that can cause lumps.
• Avoid tight clothing: Wearing tight clothing can cause irritation and ingrown hairs, which can lead to lumps on the penile shaft.
• Shave carefully: If you choose to shave the genital area, do it carefully to avoid ingrown hairs and irritation.
• Check for abnormalities: Regularly check the penis for any abnormalities, such as lumps or bumps, and seek medical attention if any are found.

Following these tips for maintaining genital health and seeking medical attention, when necessary, can help prevent and address penile lumps.^[19]

Further Reading: Red Penis Rash: Pictures Symptoms Diagnosis & Treatment