Spots on Penis

Finding red, white, brown, or dark spots on the penis –– no matter how small or innocuous they may appear –– is always worrying. However, bumps, pustules, warts, and other penis spots may or may not be an indication of a serious condition like an STD. Read on to find out more:

Common Causes of Penis Spots

Fordyce Spots

Fordyce spots are small yellow or white spots that are found on the head or shaft of the penis. They arise out of glands on the penis that don’t contain hair follicles, and they don’t present a health concern.

Penile Papules

Otherwise known as hirsutoid papillomas, these small bumps will collect in rows at the edge of the penis head. Like fordyce spots, they’re common, normal, they’re not contagious, and they don’t require treatment. Also, they don’t form as a result of infection or poor hygiene, and the exact reason for their appearance is still unknown.

Penile Hematoma (Bruise on the Penis)

Essentially a hematoma is a deep bruise that forms under the skin instead of on it. Because male genitalia is so sensitive, though, penile hematomas can cause the penis to turn purple. This could indicate a blood flow issue; such a condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent necrosis.

STDs that Cause Spots on the Penis

In the first stage of syphilis, a small chancre –– or blister-like sore –– will appear where the disease entered the body. For men, this will often be on the shaft or head of the penis. Additionally, herpes bumps, which are small and red, may appear on the penis, or the genital area at large. Both syphilis chancres and herpes bumps are filled with fluid. Remember, just because the symptoms of an STD disappear or “heal” (as a syphilis chancre and herpes bumps will after a few weeks) it doesn’t mean the STD has left your system. In fact, many STDs can exist in asymptomatic form for years at a time and contribute to a host of serious medical issues.

Genital warts are also fairly common and they can appear on the penis as well. Genital warts are caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). While there are no tests available for HPV currently, unvaccinated women who contract HPV are at risk for developing cervical cancer.

Lesions on Penis

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is infamous for causing lesions on the skin of those infected. However, in most instances, these lesions or open sores will occur throughout the body, and not necessarily just on the penis or genitals. So while penis lesions as a result of HIV are possible, it’s more common for individuals with HIV to contract herpes and experience herpes flare-ups more regularly than other individuals.