Being concerned is natural, fortunately, a range of successful treatments are available.
Teenagers and young men can develop small growths around the head of their penis (the corona) known as penile papules, or pearly penile papules.
They normally consist of two, or three rows of 1 to 2 mm in diameter, white, transparent, or flesh coloured spots. Unlike other conditions in the same area, they do not tend to change shape, or colour, or spread elsewhere.
Penile papules occur due to glands in the skin that secrete an oily, or waxy matter, called sebum, to lubricate and waterproof the skin. In this case they are ectopic, or acting out of place, a common situation.
Whilst penile papule treatment is not essential, they are aesthetically displeasing and a potential drain on self confidence. As with any issue on such a sensitive part of the body, medical investigation also makes sense.
Professional Diagnosis
Penile papules can be confused with genital warts, or infection from the human papilloma virus. A further reason to be sure, although they are not a sexually transmitted disease and not contagious.
Our consultant dermatologists can diagnose penile papules accurately, lab analysis is unlikely to be needed. They assess the exact nature of individual cases, the best route for treatment and removal of the papules.
Your consultant will naturally discuss and consider relevant health issues, along with your personal wishes. Treatment for penile papules at our London clinics is however safe, effective and up to date.
Penile Papules Treatment In London
At one time, surgical excision would have been a common approach, perhaps alongside electro desiccation. Cryosurgery (freezing) to break down the papules prior to surgical removal remains another option.
A variety of treatments can still be considered, although the best cosmetic result and a quick recovery are significant factors. Avoidance of pain in a sensitive area also matters.
The favoured approach for penile papules treatment in our London clinics is the Encore UltraPulse CO2 laser. This is medically efficient and a sound route to reducing pain, or cosmetic issues.
Laser treatment only requires a day surgery visit, in reality far shorter and in most cases an anaesthetic cream can be used, avoiding injections. The UltraPulse laser precisely targets the papules and vaporises them, without damaging surrounding areas.
You can download a pdf leaflet, which explains the procedure in detail.
Getting back to normal just takes a week or two. A solution our patients have found valuable and available at both our London dermatology clinics. You are welcome to arrange a confidential appointment with one of our specialists.
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For any advice, or to arrange a dermatology appointment, call 020 3535 7850, or send us an email via the Make An Appointment button below.