What should I do about small bumps growing on the foreskin?

Generally, small bumps appearing on the foreskin may be caused by conditions such as balanitis, folliculitis, pearly penile papules, genital herpes, or condyloma acuminatum. It is recommended to identify the underlying cause and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a professional physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Balanitis

Balanitis refers to an inflammatory reaction affecting the inner or outer skin of the foreskin. Common causes include fungal or bacterial infections, or improper hygiene. Inflammatory stimulation may lead to small bumps on the foreskin, accompanied by symptoms such as itching or pain. It is recommended to maintain local cleanliness and dryness and to use medications such as ketoconazole cream, itraconazole capsules, or azithromycin dispersible tablets.

2. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is an inflammatory skin condition primarily affecting hair follicles. In most cases, it causes thickening of the stratum corneum at the follicular openings along the corona, possibly blocking the follicular channels and preventing normal sebum discharge, thereby forming small bumps on the foreskin, accompanied by redness and pain. If detected, prompt medical consultation is recommended, and treatment should follow medical advice using medications such as erythromycin ointment, mupirocin ointment, or fusidic acid cream.

3. Pearly Penile Papules

Pearly penile papules are skin lesions occurring along the corona margin and corona sulcus of the penis. They may be related to local irritation or physiological developmental variations in the foreskin area. These lesions typically manifest as small bumps on the foreskin, accompanied by swelling, itching, burning, and pain. Generally, no specific treatment is required; maintaining good hygiene is advised, and symptoms usually subside gradually.

4. Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease caused by the herpes simplex virus. The virus enters the mucocutaneous areas of the foreskin through microscopic skin fissures or injuries, leading to the appearance of small bumps, often accompanied by swelling, pain, fever, and headache. Treatment should follow medical advice and may involve the use of medications such as acyclovir tablets, valacyclovir hydrochloride capsules, or levamisole hydrochloride tablets.

5. Condyloma Acuminatum

Condyloma acuminatum is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Transmission occurs through sexual contact, indirect contact with contaminated objects, or autoinoculation, leading to the appearance of small, pale red granules on the mucocutaneous surfaces, which may manifest as small bumps on the foreskin. Symptoms may also include foreign body sensation, pain, and itching. Prompt medical consultation is advised, and treatment under medical guidance may involve the use of imiquimod cream, podophyllotoxin cream, or imiquimod cream. Laser surgery may be necessary for skin repair when indicated.

In daily life, it is advisable to maintain local cleanliness and hygiene, increase intake of foods rich in vitamin C and vitamin E, such as orange juice, peaches, and grapes. Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided, and adequate water intake is recommended to maintain bodily fluid balance.