Pearly penile papules
Hirsuties papillaris genitalis (more commonly referred to as "pearly penile papules" (PPP)) is a clinical skin condition of the male genital organs. It is a harmless physiological phenomenon with no malignant potential. The papules appear as one or several rows of small, flesh-colored, smooth, dome-topped bumps situated circumferentially around the corona (see image) or sulcus of the glans penis. Uncommonly, lesions may extend onto the glans penis. It is not a sexually transmitted disease and its appearance is unrelated to sexual activity or standards of personal hygiene. The bumps are however extremely sensitive and many sufferers view this sensitivity as unwelcome.[1] A 1999 medical study found that 48% of 200 men attending a department of genitourinary medicine had the condition. Various other studies have shown that the number may be in the interval between 8% and 48%, varying with region and whether or not the subjects are circumcised. Lesions typically are asymptomatic and persist throughout life; however, they gradually may become less noticeable with increased age.
Treatment
Therapy is not required but sometimes offered to alleviate patient anxiety or for cosmetic reasons. Treatment for larger uncomfortable papules — i.e. raised bumps of somewhat paler colour around the base of the glans — is by a simple carbon dioxide laser treatment.
There is anecdotal evidence that by applying toothpaste containing clindamycin (smoker's toothpaste) and allowing the toothpaste to remain in contact with the papules overnight, the papules can be reduced or eliminated. In some men it takes multiple treatments and many men who have tried this treatment report that the reduction in the papules is only temporary.
Further reading
- Sonnex C, & Dockerty W.G (1999). "Pearly penile papules: a common cause of concern". International Journal of STD & AIDS, Vol.10, No.11; 1 November 1999, pages 726-727.