“22M, with Longstanding Penile Bump – Concern About Cancer?” - #14326
Hello doctor, I am a 22-year-old male and I am not circumcised. I have a small bump near the opening of my urethra (on the head of my penis). I first noticed it when I was about 18 years old, and it has stayed the same size since then. It does not hurt, does not bleed, and has not changed in color or shape. I already have pearly penile papules (PPP), but this small bump is a little closer to the urethral opening. When I press it, there is no pain. I want to know if this bump could be something serious like penile cancer, or if it is just a normal part of being uncircumcised. Please tell me if I need medical attention or any treatment. Thank you
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Doctors’ responses
Hello, 🛑Penile cancer is very rare in young men, and usually shows changes over months
Your bump does not match any features of cancer and has been completely stable for several years, which makes cancer extremely unlikely.
🛑It is almost certainly benign (PPP, Fordyce spot, or skin tag).
A single check-up with a urologist or dermatologist can give reassurance.
Nothing to worry about,Sachintha👍
Hello Doctor, Thank you very much for your clear and reassuring explanation. I really appreciate the time you took to review my concern and for your kind, thoughtful response. Your advice has helped ease my worries and given me confidence about what to do next. Thanks again for your support!
Hello dear See as per clinical history it can be benign growth like adenoma or there are chances of scrotal swelling or hernia I suggest you to please get following tests done for confirmation Scrotal USG Rft Herniography Cbc Afb marker Please share the result with gynaecologist in person for better clarity Regards
Considering your description, it is important to approach this with caution but not with alarm. A longstanding, unchanged bump, particularly if it is small, painless, and not showing signs like bleeding or color changes, is less likely to be cancerous. Penile cancer at your age is quite rare, and typically presents with more concerning features such as ulceration, rapid growth, bleeding, or a foul smell. Given that the bump has remained stable for several years, this reduces the suspicion for cancer. There are some benign possibilities, such as a cyst, a sebaceous gland, or an isolated pearly penile papule, especially considering its location and your description. Pearly penile papules themselves are naturally occurring and entirely normal although they usually don’t appear right at the urethral opening. However, having any lesion evaluated in person by a healthcare provider is a good idea to rule out any concerns definitively. They might conduct a physical examination and could consider further assessments if there are any atypical findings. In the meantime, maintain good hygiene, especially if you’re uncircumcised, as this can help avoid infections or irritation that might complicate an uncomplicated lesion. If the bump starts to grow, changes in character, or you develop new symptoms like pain or discharge, it would necessitate more urgent evaluation. Appointments with a urologist or a dermatologist familiar with genital examinations would be appropriate, especially if a general practitioner raises any concerns. Remember, getting it checked will give you peace of mind and clarity over what it actually is.
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