There is a small fleshy pimple on the foreskin

Small fleshy bumps on the foreskin may be a symptom of diseases such as pearly penile papules, ectopic sebaceous glands, or genital warts. 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 lesions that appear as small white or light red papules arranged regularly on the coronal edge of the foreskin. It may be related to poor local hygiene or abnormal physiological development. It is usually painless and itchy. Generally, no treatment is required. If the appearance is affected, laser or cryotherapy can be used to remove it as directed by your doctor. Daily attention should be paid to cleaning the perineum to avoid excessive friction and irritation.

2. Ectopia of sebaceous glands

Ectopia sebaceum is caused by the abnormal distribution of sebaceous glands forming small yellow particles on the mucosal surface, which are more common on the inside of the foreskin. It is related to changes in hormone levels and may be accompanied by mild itching. Usually no special treatment is required. When symptoms are obvious, topical retinoic acid cream or erythromycin ointment can be used. Avoid scratching or using harsh lotions.

3. Genital warts

Genital warts are caused by HPV infection and appear as cauliflower-like growths that may be accompanied by increased discharge. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed by acetic acid white test or pathological examination. Treatment options include imiquimod cream, podophyllotoxin tincture and other drugs, or carbon dioxide laser removal. It is contagious and sexual contact should be avoided until recovery.

4. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is usually a red pustule caused by a bacterial infection, which is accompanied by tenderness. It is common when hygiene conditions are poor or immunity is low. Topical mupirocin ointment and fusidic acid cream can be used to control the infection. In severe cases, cefuroxime axetil tablets can be taken orally. Keep the area dry and breathable, and avoid squeezing the lesions.

5. Sebaceous cyst

Sebaceous cysts form subcutaneous induration due to gland blockage, which may lead to redness and swelling due to secondary infection. Smaller cysts can be observed and require surgical removal if they become enlarged or infected. In case of combined infection, antibiotics such as amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium tablets and levofloxacin tablets must be used first. Avoid greasy food every day to reduce gland secretion.

It is recommended to wash the foreskin with warm water every day and dry it completely, and choose pure cotton breathable underwear to reduce friction. Avoid using alkaline lotions or picking pimples yourself. If the pimple continues to increase in size, ruptures and bleeds, or is accompanied by abnormal urination, you must immediately seek treatment at a dermatology or urology department. Sexual partners need to be checked simultaneously to rule out infectious diseases.