Penile Papules

Small Spines on the Penis: Harmless but Distressing for Some Patients.

Photo: © Jevjenijs  - stock.adobe.com

Everything You Need to Know About Penile Papules: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

• What are Penile Papules and How Do They Develop?

• How are Penile Papules Diagnosed?

• Are Penile Papules Contagious or a Sign of a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)?

• Can Penile Papules be Removed and What Treatment Options are Available?

• Can I Treat or Remove Penile Papules Myself?

• How Long is the Recovery After Penile Papules Removal?

• Are There Any Risks or Complications Associated with the Removal of Penile Papules?

• Is One Treatment Enough or Will I Need Multiple Treatments?

• Do Penile Papules Return After Successful Treatment?

• What Costs are Associated with the Removal of Penile Papules?

• I Want More Information and Advice on My Options. What Should I Do Next?

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What are Penile Papules and How Do They Develop?

Penile papules, medically known as Hirsuties papillaris genitalis, are small, skin-colored or whitish papules that typically form around the edge of the glans in men. This appearance is completely harmless and poses no health risk. The exact causes are unknown. They are a harmless, physiological phenomenon that naturally occurs in some men.

How are Penile Papules Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of penile papules is usually made through a physical examination. If further tests are required, this can be discussed during a dermatological consultation.

Are Penile Papules Contagious or a Sign of a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)?

No, penile papules are neither contagious nor a symptom of an STI. They are a normal anatomical variation and harmless. They should not be confused with warts or the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Penile papules do not contain viruses or bacteria and therefore cannot be transmitted through sexual contact or other interactions. If penile papules are found to be bothersome, they can be removed.

Can Penile Papules be Removed and What Treatment Options are Available?

Penile papules can be removed for aesthetic reasons. Removal is performed using electrocautery or CO2 laser ablation. The affected areas are treated with a numbing cream an hour before the procedure to temporarily desensitize them. Book your appointment here

Can I Treat or Remove Penile Papules Myself?

It is not recommended to treat or remove penile papules yourself, as this could lead to infections or other complications. It is important to have this done by a specialist.

How Long is the Recovery After Penile Papules Removal?

Recovery after penile papules removal is relatively quick. However, it may take a few days for the crusts to fall off and the skin to fully heal. Post-treatment care involves the use of an antibiotic ointment.

Are There Any Risks or Complications Associated with the Removal of Penile Papules?

Generally, the removal of penile papules is safe. However, as with any procedure, there is a slight risk of infection, scarring, or temporary sensory disturbances.

Is One Treatment Enough or Will I Need Multiple Treatments?

Whether a single treatment is sufficient or multiple sessions are necessary depends on the extent of the penile papules. For most patients, one treatment is adequate. In other cases, particularly with more pronounced penile papules, multiple treatments may be required to achieve the desired result.

Do Penile Papules Return After Successful Treatment?

Typically, penile papules can be permanently removed with one successful treatment. However, in rare cases, they may reappear after some time.

What Costs are Associated with the Removal of Penile Papules?

The initial treatment costs 650 Euros. For a more extensive cases, follow-up treatments may be necessary, which will be charged based on the time required.

I Want More Information and Advice on My Options. What Should I Do Next?

In our center in Vienna, Dr. Lisa Schwarzbauer specializes in penile papules treatments. For an initial consultation, book "General Dermatology" with Dr. Schwarzbauer. During this appointment, a thorough diagnosis will be made, and you will be informed about the treatment options and post-operative care. After this consultation, you can schedule your treatment appointment. For legal reasons, the consultation and the procedure must be scheduled separately.

We are happy to offer you a personal consultation. Book your appointment here