There are small white blisters on the glans penis

Small white blisters on the glans may be related to factors such as pearly penile papules, genital herpes, contact dermatitis, balanitis or ectopic sebaceous glands. It is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly for a clear diagnosis and avoid self-treatment.

1. Pearly penile papules

Pearly penile papules are a benign physiological phenomenon that appear as white or skin-colored small papules regularly arranged on the edge of the glans coronal sulcus, without pain or itching. It may be related to poor local hygiene or excessive foreskin. Usually no treatment is needed, just keep the perineum clean and dry. If it affects the appearance, laser treatment can be considered, but it must be carried out under the guidance of a doctor.

2. Genital herpes

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus. The blisters appear in clusters and are painful. They rupture and form ulcers. It can be transmitted through sexual contact and is often accompanied by fever and swollen inguinal lymph nodes. Virus testing is required to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment can be based on the doctor's advice to use antiviral drugs such as acyclovir cream and famciclovir tablets, while avoiding sexual contact.

3. Contact dermatitis

Contact with detergents, condoms or friction with clothing may cause allergic contact dermatitis, which manifests as local redness, swelling, blisters and itching on the glans penis. Suspected allergens must be stopped immediately and the affected area flushed with clean water. Hydrocortisone cream can be used for a short period of time when symptoms are severe, and mupirocin ointment is required for combined infections.

4. Balanitis

Balanitis caused by a fungal or bacterial infection can cause a white blister-like rash with increased discharge and an odor. Candida infection is common in diabetics and manifests as tofu-like discharge. Treatment requires clotrimazole cream or erythromycin ointment according to the pathogen, and repeated episodes of blood sugar abnormalities need to be checked.

5. Ectopia of sebaceous glands

Ectopia sebaceum is yellow or white particles formed by the abnormal distribution of sebaceous glands in the mucous membrane, most commonly found on the inside of the foreskin. It is a normal variation and requires no special treatment. However, it needs to be differentiated from genital warts, which appear as cauliflower-like growths and need to be confirmed by an acetic acid white test or HPV test.

You should choose breathable cotton underwear every day and avoid using irritating lotions to clean the perineum. Clean before and after sexual intercourse. For those with excessive foreskin, circumcision may be considered to prevent infection. If symptoms such as blister rupture, exudation or fever occur, you must seek medical attention immediately. It is prohibited to open blisters on your own or abuse antibiotic ointments. Sexual intercourse should be prohibited during treatment, and sexual partners should be checked simultaneously.