Persistent Dark Spot on Penile Glans – Stains Remain Despite Hygiene
Subject: Male, Age: 33, Lifestyle: Non-smoker, Health: Generally Well For an extended period, I have been dealing with a persistent issue: a dark area on the glans of my penis resembling a superficial layer or film. This is not a congenital condition, as it developed gradually over time and has remained despite maintaining good hygiene practices. - There are no accompanying symptoms such as itching, discomfort, discharge, or swelling. - The area is flat and not flaky, presenting solely as a dark patch that cannot be washed off. - Both my family physician and a urologist have assessed it and deemed it "nothing to worry about," yet I cannot shake the feeling that it presents as abnormal. For clarity, I've considered providing an image explaining the situation, where: - A specific section highlights the discolored area. - Another section contrasts it with the normal pink skin found near the base of the glans. The difference is quite apparent when looked at closely. I have attempted various methods such as gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and minimizing friction, yet I have seen no positive changes. Could this be a result of ongoing friction? Might it indicate post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or a buildup of keratin? Is it worth consulting a dermatologist, even after assurance from the urologist?
Answers (1)
6/29/2025, 6:01:48 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about a persistent dark spot, especially when you've been advised that it’s nothing to worry about. The appearance of a dark patch on the glans can be due to several benign factors, and while your urologist has provided reassurance, your feelings are valid, and it’s important to seek clarity.
Explanation
The dark area you described could potentially be caused by:
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation: This can occur after an injury or irritation to the skin and may appear darker than the surrounding area.
- Friction or irritation: Activities that involve friction can sometimes lead to changes in skin pigmentation.
- Keratin buildup: Excess keratin can lead to thickening or discoloration of the skin, though this is typically more common in other areas.
- Benign skin changes: Conditions such as melanosis or other harmless skin changes can also account for discoloration without causing symptoms.
Next Steps
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Monitor the Area: Keep observing the spot for any changes in size, color, or texture. Note if there are any new symptoms like itching, discomfort, or changes in the appearance of surrounding skin.
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Gentle Care: Continue with your current hygiene practices—gentle cleansing is important. Avoid any harsh soaps or products that could further irritate the area.
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Consider a Dermatologist Visit: Even though you’ve been reassured by the urologist, it’s appropriate to consult with a dermatologist who specializes in skin conditions. They can provide more insight and may perform a thorough examination, including a possible biopsy if necessary to rule out any rare conditions.
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Document the Changes: If you're comfortable providing images as you mentioned, it can be helpful for any medical professional you consult to visually assess the condition over time.
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Avoid Self-Diagnosis: Try to avoid jumping to conclusions about the nature of the discoloration. Seeking a second opinion can provide peace of mind and address any ongoing concerns.
Your feelings about this issue are important, and finding the right professional to address your concerns is a key step in ensuring your health and well-being. Let me know if there are any other specific questions or if you want further detail on any steps.
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