What does it mean if there are white spots on the glans and it's itchy?

Generally, white spots accompanied by itching on the glans may be caused by conditions such as pearly penile papules, smegma accumulation, balanitis, genital warts (condyloma acuminata), or genital herpes. If abnormalities occur, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Pearly penile papules: Often caused by long foreskin or poor local hygiene, leading to benign hyperplasia of the coronal sulcus skin of the glans due to chronic irritation. This condition does not require specific treatment. Maintaining good local cleanliness—such as gently washing daily with warm water, changing underwear regularly, and avoiding excessive friction—usually leads to spontaneous improvement.

2. Smegma accumulation: In cases of long foreskin or phimosis, secretions from the inner foreskin layer mix with shed cells to form smegma. If not cleaned regularly, this can irritate the glans, causing white spots and itching. It is important to retract the foreskin periodically and thoroughly wash with clean water to keep the area dry and hygienic. Circumcision may be considered when necessary.

3. Balanitis: Inflammation caused by infection of the glans with bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens. Symptoms include red or white spots on the glans, accompanied by itching and pain; severe cases may present with swelling, erosion, or ulceration. After professional evaluation, topical treatments such as miconazole nitrate cream, clotrimazole cream, or erythromycin ointment may be prescribed.

4. Genital warts: Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, transmitted primarily through sexual contact. Small, pale red papules appear on the glans, which gradually grow into papillary or cauliflower-like masses with a rough surface, often associated with itching and odor. Following medical assessment, topical treatments such as podophyllotoxin tincture, imiquimod cream, or fluorouracil cream may be used.

5. Genital herpes: Caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, spread via sexual contact. Characterized by clusters of small vesicles on the glans that rupture to form erosions or ulcers, accompanied by itching, pain, and sometimes swollen local lymph nodes. After diagnosis by a physician, antiviral creams such as acyclovir, penciclovir, or valacyclovir may be applied.

Daily attention should be paid to personal hygiene, including thorough cleaning of the genital area; avoid unsafe sexual practices and use condoms correctly; maintain regular sleep patterns, balanced nutrition, and boost immunity; seek timely medical care if any abnormalities arise.