Men experience reproductive health problems at some point in their lives, one being pearly penile papules (PPP). Continue reading this informative article to learn more about PPPs and how they form.
Table of Contents
What Are Pearly Penile Papules?
Pearly penile papules are non-malignant, whitish-gray skin bumps that appear in rows around the head of the male’s reproductive organ or glans penis. In most cases, men with PPP don’t experience any additional symptoms, such as a burning sensation during urination and purulent discharge.
The dome-shaped filiform papules are arranged circumferentially in rows. Their appearance poses a major concern among patients. Hence, proper patient education is crucial to clarify the benign nature of the bumps and help reduce anxiety.
Furthermore, there are several treatments for addressing PPP. In-clinic treatments, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) laser therapy, are performed by licensed experts. Home remedies, such as PPP kits, are also available. These can help vaporize skin bumps by using an electrical ionizer. In this regard, it’s a must to read a PPP kit guide to learn the right procedure.
How Do Pearly Penile Papules Form?
During late adolescence or early adulthood, many men experience pearly penile papules. Generally, the whitish, or, sometimes, yellowish or pinkish, papules are harmless. But, how do these things form?
Upon microscopic study of tissues or dermoscopy, PPP resembles the features of angiofibroma with overlying dilated vessels found in the dermis or inner layer of the skin.
According to the American Urological Association, papules are possible remains from a male’s embryonic development. Generally, the exact cause is unknown. But, many people have misconceptions about how PPPs form and affect people, which will be discussed in detail below.
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Pearly Penile Papules May Resemble Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Sebaceous hyperplasia, a benign sebaceous gland condition, is often seen on the face. In rare cases, PPP-like lesions appear on the penis. While white to yellow skin bumps appear in the front part of the penile shaft of sebaceous hyperplasia, this condition differs from PPP, which isn’t caused by an overactive sebaceous gland.
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Pearly Penile Papules May Look Like Genital Warts
Papules have cobblestone or a grape-like vascular pattern, as seen in condyloma acuminatum or genital warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). PPP, on the one hand, isn’t caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria and doesn’t shed.
Pearly penile papules often fade as the man ages without treatment. Still, genital warts only go away after religiously taking prescription medications, or they may grow in number or size if left untreated. Like genital warts, PPP can be treated by freezing with liquid nitrogen, electrocautery, laser treatments, or surgical excision.
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Pearly Penile Papules May Resemble STDs
Social stigma still exists in terms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). As a result, some men may feel ashamed and hesitate to consult a doctor because they think PPP is caused by a virus, especially those with multiple sexual partners.
Pearly penile papules are often mistaken for STDs, like primary syphilis. However, PPP can’t be passed on through direct skin-to-skin contact. Sexually active men with the said condition must not worry about transmitting any virus to their intimate partner.
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Pearly Penile Papules May Appear As Penile Cancer
Skin growths due to penile cancer may resemble pearly penile papules, which aren’t cancerous. Bluish-brown skin growths characterize the former, and the patient feels a mass or lump on the penis. On the other hand, PPP skin bumps are white, yellow, or flesh-colored.
Penile cancer growths are usually found on the foreskin or head and may appear small or large infected sores. PPP, on the other hand, is located near the head of the penis.
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Pearly Penile Papules Can Affect Mental Health
PPP can cause negative psychological effects on some patients. Without proper education, patients may feel anxious and depressed.’
The misconception about PPP as STD can cause patients to self-medicate. However, they may end up getting frustrated and causing more harm to their health. A licensed gynaecologist or general medical practitioner is the best person who can assess, diagnose, and treat PPP.
It’s a must to be informed about the true nature of pearly penile papules and quash false notions about the said condition to avoid unnecessary anxiety.
Conclusion
The exact cause of pearly penile papules or PPP is unknown. They tend to form around the head of the penis in late adolescence or young adulthood. Without additional symptoms, PPP resolves or heals on its own. Patients can choose from a wide array of treatments available, such as using PPP kits.
