It’s understandably normal to be a concerned if you notice any blemishes on your penis. Small growths at the head of the penis could possibly be pearly penile papules, or if you are sexually active, you could have genital warts; which sometimes can be mistaken from pearly penile papules. Read on to learn more about PPP and how we manage them at Castleknock Cosmetic Clinic Dublin.
Why have PPP?
Throughout many species, mammalian penises have developed keratinized penile spines along the glans and/or shaft, which may be involved in sexual selection. These spines have been described as being simple, single-pointed structures or complex with two or three points per spine. Penile spine morphology may be related to mating system.
Felines, especially domestic cats, are well known for having penile spines. Upon withdrawal of a cat’s penis, the spines rake the walls of the female’s vagina, which may cause ovulation. Penile spines in chimpanzees and mice are small surface projections made by the piling up of keratinized cell layers in the outermost skin surface.
In contrast to chimpanzees and mice, the common structures found in humans are substantially larger, appear to be an outgrowth of both surface and underlying connective tissue layers, and lack the rich innervation seen in other animals.
Human Penis PPP
Human Pearly penile papules (PPP) are small, benign physically harmless growths. PPP vary in colour and can be pink, white, yellow, or translucent. They’re normally small tentacles measuring from 1-2mm wide and could reach 1-4mm long. The shape, colour, and size can vary between individuals, but all the papules that one person has will look the same. The papules are usually found in a single or double row on or around the head of the penis.
Causes of PPP
Medical experts are not completely sure why some men have PPP. Since PPP aren’t harmful in any way. They are considered a normal penis head variation. Additionally, guys can have PPP regardless of their race, geographic location, or sexual preference. Several reports say that uncircumcised guys may be more likely to have them than those who are circumcised.
PPP and Genital Warts
No, PPP are not the same as genital warts. Genital warts are caused by HPV; a sexually transmitted infection. They are small, cauliflower shaped growths that can also develop on or around a guys’ anus, thighs, groin, scrotum, penis, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat. Unlike PPP, genital warts are contagious.
PPP Concern
If you’re ever concerned about any lumps or bumps on your genital region, you should make an appointment with your health care provider.
What is the treatment for PPP?
Do not try to pick at your pearly penile papules (PPP) or pop them, and do not use an over the counter “wart remover” as these medicines are not meant for use on your penis. There are a number of treatments available at Castleknock Cosmetic Clinic Dublin; to effectively remove the PPP and include hyfrecation, SWD and Plasma as well as ablative lasers.
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