Pearly Penile Papules or Genital Warts?

[bearsfan15]

Well - I'll keep this quick. I'm 24, and I've only had sex with one person (my wife). We started having sex about 3 months ago. I'm 100% that she hasn't been sleeping around with anyone else. Before her, my last sexual encounter was over 4 years ago (not sex, but other things). I have had no symptoms up until Monday. On Monday, my wife noticed a single, small, white bump on the bottom of the head of my penis. It is on the head, but near the shaft. Immediately, I thought the worst and thought STD. With more research, it sounds like it could be PPP as well? It seems as if PPP comes in strings, however. I only have one single bump. It's not painful, hasn't popped. Obviously I plan on seeing a doctor - but I'd just like some initial thoughts. If it is HPV/Genital Warts - what are the chances I got it 4 (or more) years ago, and carried it unknowingly all this time - only to now show a symptom? Thanks in advance!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Pearly penile papules are small dome-shaped to filiform skin-colored papules that typically are located on the sulcus or corona of the glans penis.They do not appear suddenly and develop around puberty and then persist for a long time unless treated.
Hope it helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing or in case you have additional queries. Kind regards.

[bearsfan15]

Any other thoughts on this? Thanks!

[bearsfan15]

Thanks for your quick reply! I notice you didn't mention PPP? Do you think that since there's only a single one - PPP is unlikely? What should I watch for in the coming days/weeks? How long should I give it to clear up/get worse? Thanks!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Without examination,confirmation of a diagnosis is tough but it can folliculitis,cysts ,molluscum contagiosum(multiple, small, dome-shaped papules, often with a central depression or plug) or genital warts(caused by HPV infection and chances are less likely).

Apply warm compresses,Neosporin ointment and calamine lotion and avoid messing with it.You  can take anti-inflammatory pain killers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.If the lump persists then it will be best to get it evaluated from a dermatologist.
I hope it helps.Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.