Sharp wet pimples on the glans and pearly rash

Condyloma acuminata on the glans penis is a sexually transmitted disease caused by human papillomavirus infection, and pearly rash is a benign physiological variation that occurs in the coronal sulcus of the penis. There are obvious differences in causes, symptoms and treatments between the two, and professional examination is required for differential diagnosis.

1. Differences in causes

Genital warts are caused by low-risk viral infections such as HPV types 6 and 11, and are mainly spread through sexual contact. The pathogenesis of pearly rash is not yet clear. It may be related to local irritation, redundant foreskin and other factors. It is not contagious. Clinical statistics show that the incidence of pearly rash is higher in uncircumcised men.

2. Morphological characteristics

Condyloma acuminata initially appear as small light red papules, which gradually develop into cauliflower-like and papillary excrescences. The surface is moist and easy to bleed, and can emit a foul odor. Pearly rash appears as 1-3 mm pearly white translucent papules, arranged in a ring and distributed in the coronal sulcus. The texture is hard to touch and the surface is smooth.

3. Accompanying symptoms

Genital warts may be accompanied by itching, burning or discomfort during sexual intercourse, and purulent discharge may occur when secondary infection occurs. Pearly rash usually has no symptoms. A few patients may experience mild itching when their hygiene is poor, but it does not cause pain or dysfunction.

4. Diagnostic methods

The acetic acid white test can assist in the diagnosis of genital warts. Positive symptoms include local whitening. HPV-DNA testing or pathological biopsy is required for diagnosis. Pearly rash can be diagnosed through typical clinical manifestations, and dermoscopy can be performed if necessary. It is characterized by regularly arranged glomus-like structures.

5. Treatment measures

Genital warts require comprehensive treatment, including imiquimod cream, podophyllotoxin tincture and other drugs, or physical therapy such as freezing and laser. Pearl rash is a normal physiological phenomenon and generally does not require special treatment. Just keep the area clean and dry. If it seriously affects the appearance, laser removal can be considered.

You should pay attention to the cleanliness of the perineum every day and avoid unclean sex. Patients with genital warts should be reviewed regularly to observe recurrence. Patients with pearly rash do not need to be overly anxious, but if they notice changes in the shape of the rash or uncomfortable symptoms, they still need to seek medical treatment in time to rule out other diseases. The key to differential diagnosis between the two lies in the clinical examination of a professional doctor, and self-medication is not recommended.