What causes itchy small blisters on the skin of the penis?
May 26, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
Introduction
Small blisters on the penis are commonly associated with the following conditions:
- **Balanitis**: Characterized primarily by redness and swelling of the glans penis and foreskin, small blisters, intense burning pain, and, in severe cases, urinary dysfunction. Purulent discharge may continuously leak from the urethral meatus.
- **Genital herpes**: A highly contagious viral skin infection.
Everyone inevitably falls ill at some point. For men, developing small blisters on the penis can be extremely uncomfortable—what could be causing this? The specific causes are as follows:
① Balanitis
A common urological condition affecting the male genitalia. Its primary symptoms include redness and swelling of the foreskin, the appearance of small blisters, intense burning pain, and, in severe cases, urinary dysfunction. Additionally, purulent discharge may continuously leak from the urethral opening.
② Genital Herpes
A highly contagious viral skin infection. If infected with genital herpes, numerous small blisters will appear on the penis, accompanied by burning and itching sensations. Friction or trauma may trigger erythematous papules, which rapidly progress to clustered vesicles; in advanced stages, suppuration may occur.
③ Scrotal Eczema
Scrotal eczema may also cause small blisters on the penile skin. It is a common form of eczema primarily affecting the scrotal and perianal skin, though in rare cases it may extend onto the penis. Key manifestations include erythema, edema, intense pruritus, and tiny, pinhead- to millet grain–sized vesicular papules.
