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Lumps and spots on the penis

Changes to the skin of the penis are a common reason to seek advice, and in most cases something harmless lies behind them.

This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Changes to the skin of the penis are a common reason to seek advice, and in most cases something harmless lies behind them. Some of these features belong to normal anatomy and need no treatment at all. But telling normal apart from an infection or a skin condition is not something to attempt alone, and some of these conditions respond far better the sooner they are treated. Hence a simple rule: any new lump or spot is worth showing to a clinician.

What counts as normal

These occur in many men, do not spread and need no treatment:

  • pearly penile papules — a row of small identical bumps around the rim of the glans, appearing in adolescence;
  • Fordyce spots — small pale dots, which are visible oil glands;
  • sebaceous cysts — firm nodules under the skin, without inflammation.

Their main feature is stability: they do not grow, do not hurt and do not change over years.

What needs treatment

  • Genital warts — soft skin-coloured growths, sometimes in clusters, caused by human papillomavirus;
  • herpes — painful blisters and then raw areas, often preceded by burning and tingling;
  • molluscum contagiosum — smooth firm nodules with a dip in the centre;
  • syphilis — a firm painless ulcer that heals by itself, creating a false impression of recovery;
  • balanitis — redness, swelling, itching and soreness of the glans, often fungal and not infrequently the first sign of undiagnosed diabetes;
  • lichen planus, psoriasis, eczema — skin conditions that produce lesions here as well;
  • lichen sclerosus — whitish thickened areas that stop the foreskin retracting;
  • penile cancer — rare, but with a non-healing ulcer or a firm lump it is the first thing to exclude.

When to see a clinician

  • a new lump, ulcer, raw area or rash has appeared;
  • the glans is red, swollen, itchy or sore;
  • the foreskin no longer retracts, or will not return to its position;
  • there is discharge from the urethra or stinging when passing urine;
  • a lesion has not healed in more than two or three weeks, is growing, or bleeds;
  • the lymph nodes in the groin have enlarged;
  • any change has appeared after unprotected sex.

Emergency help is needed if a retracted foreskin has trapped the glans and will not go back, with increasing swelling and pain — that situation requires immediate attention.

What happens at the appointment

The clinician will examine the area, ask when the changes appeared, whether there is itching, pain or discharge, and also about sexual contacts — these questions are asked of everyone, not to judge but to choose the right tests. A swab from the glans or urethra is usual, along with a urine test, blood tests for sexually transmitted infections, and blood glucose in recurrent balanitis. For a lesion that will not heal, a biopsy is taken.

There is no need to feel awkward about this appointment: for a clinician it is routine, and here delay costs more than embarrassment.

Treatment

This depends on the cause: antifungal creams for candidal balanitis, antivirals for herpes, antibiotics for bacterial infections, removal of warts and molluscum with topical treatments or procedures, topical anti-inflammatories for skin conditions. With sexually transmitted infections a partner is treated too, otherwise the infection comes back.

Prevention

Condoms reduce the risk of most infections, though they do not fully protect against warts and herpes, since contact with uncovered skin is possible. HPV vaccination helps, as does daily hygiene — washing under the foreskin with warm water and without harsh products — and regular check-ups when changing partners.

Online consultation

In an online appointment a doctor can review your description and photographs, help distinguish a normal variant from something needing treatment, arrange the necessary tests, prescribe treatment and explain when an in-person examination is essential.

This article is for general information and does not replace a consultation with a doctor.

Consult with a doctor about Lumps and spots on the penis

Consult with a doctor about Lumps and spots on the penis

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

Medically reviewed by

Andrei Popov
Andrei Popov
General medicineMedical License: 464628925

Reviewed on Jul 3, 2026

Online doctors for Lumps and spots on the penis

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Lumps and spots on the penis with a doctor online.

Doctor
5.0(12)

Yevgen Yakovenko

Family medicine12 years of experience

Dr. Yevgen Yakovenko is a licensed surgeon and general practitioner in Spain and Germany. He specialises in general, paediatric, and oncological surgery, internal medicine, and pain management. He offers online consultations for adults and children, combining surgical precision with therapeutic support. Dr Yakovenko works with patients across different countries and provides care in Ukrainian, Russian, English, and Spanish.

Areas of medical expertise:

  • Acute and chronic pain: headaches, muscle and joint pain, back pain, abdominal pain, postoperative pain. Identifying the cause, selecting treatment, and creating a care plan.
  • Internal medicine: heart, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, urinary system. Management of chronic conditions, symptom control, second opinions.
  • Pre- and postoperative care: risk assessment, decision-making support, follow-up after surgery, rehabilitation strategies.
  • General and paediatric surgery: hernias, appendicitis, congenital conditions, both planned and urgent surgeries.
  • Injuries and trauma: bruises, fractures, sprains, soft tissue damage, wound care, dressing, referral when in-person care is required.
  • Oncological surgery: diagnosis review, treatment planning, and long-term follow-up.
  • Obesity treatment and weight management: a medical approach to weight loss, including assessment of underlying causes, evaluation of comorbidities, development of a personalised plan (nutrition, physical activity, pharmacotherapy if needed), and ongoing progress monitoring.
  • Imaging interpretation: analysis of ultrasound, CT, MRI, and X-ray results, surgical planning based on imaging data.
  • Second opinions and medical navigation: clarifying diagnoses, reviewing current treatment plans, helping patients choose the best course of action.

Experience and qualifications:

  • 12+ years of clinical experience in university hospitals in Germany and Spain.
  • International education: Ukraine – Germany – Spain.
  • Member of the German Society of Surgeons (BDC).
  • Certified in radiological diagnostics and robotic surgery.
  • Active participant in international medical conferences and research.

Dr Yakovenko explains complex topics in a clear, accessible way. He works collaboratively with patients to analyse health issues and make evidence-based decisions. His approach is grounded in clinical excellence, scientific accuracy, and respect for each individual.

If you are unsure about a diagnosis, preparing for surgery, or want to discuss your test results – Dr Yakovenko will help you evaluate your options and move forward with confidence.

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€72
Doctor
5.0(3)

Lina Travkina

Family medicine13 years of experience

Dr. Lina Travkina is a licensed family and preventive medicine doctor based in Italy. She provides online consultations for adults and children, supporting patients across all stages of care – from acute symptom management to long-term health monitoring and prevention.

Areas of medical care include:

  • Respiratory conditions: colds, flu, acute and chronic bronchitis, mild to moderate pneumonia, bronchial asthma.
  • ENT and eye conditions: sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, otitis, infectious and allergic conjunctivitis.
  • Digestive issues: gastritis, acid reflux (GERD), IBS, dyspepsia, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, functional bowel symptoms, intestinal infections.
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  • Chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, metabolic syndrome, thyroid disorders, excess weight.
  • Neurological and general symptoms: headache, migraine, dizziness, fatigue, sleep disturbances, reduced concentration, anxiety, asthenia.
  • Chronic pain support: back, neck, joint, and muscle pain, tension syndromes, pain associated with osteochondrosis and chronic conditions.

Additional care areas:

  • Preventive consultations and check-up planning.
  • Medical advice and follow-up consultations.
  • Test interpretation and diagnostic guidance.
  • Structured support for undiagnosed complaints.
  • Second opinion on diagnoses and treatment plans.
  • Nutritional and lifestyle support for vitamin deficiencies, anaemia, metabolic issues.
  • Post-operative recovery support and pain management.
  • Preconception counselling and postpartum support.
  • Immunity support and strategies to reduce frequency of infections.

Dr. Travkina combines evidence-based medicine with an attentive, personalised approach. Her consultations focus not only on treatment, but also on prevention, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.

If during the consultation it becomes clear that your case requires in-person assessment or specialised care outside of her scope, the session will be terminated and the payment fully refunded.

Book a video appointment
€75
Doctor
5.0(19)

Nuno Tavares Lopes

Family medicineGeneral medicine18 years of experience

Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes is a licensed physician in Portugal with 17 years of experience in emergency medicine, family and general practice, and public health. He is the Director of Medical and Public Health Services at an international healthcare network and serves as an external consultant for the WHO and ECDC.

  • Emergency care: infections, fever, chest/abdominal pain, minor injuries, paediatric emergencies
  • Family medicine: hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol, chronic disease management
  • Travel medicine: pre-travel advice, vaccinations, fit-to-fly certificates, travel-related illnesses
  • Sexual and reproductive health: PrEP, STD prevention, counselling, treatment
  • Weight management and wellness: personalised weight loss programmes, lifestyle guidance
  • Skin and ENT issues: acne, eczema, allergies, rashes, sore throat, sinusitis
  • Pain management: acute and chronic pain, post-surgical care
  • Public health: prevention, health screenings, long-term monitoring
  • Sick leave (Baixa médica) connected to Segurança Social in Portugal
  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange
Dr. Nuno Tavares Lopes provides medical support for patients using GLP-1 medications (Mounjaro, Wegovy, Ozempic, Rybelsus) as part of a weight loss strategy. He offers individualised treatment planning, regular follow-up, dose adjustment, and advice on combining medication with sustainable lifestyle changes. Consultations follow the medical standards accepted in Europe.

Dr. Lopes also provides interpretation of medical tests, follow-up care for complex patients, and multilingual support. Whether for urgent concerns or long-term care, he helps patients act with clarity and confidence.

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€70
Doctor
5.0(1)

Tomasz Grzelewski

DermatologyAllergology21 years of experience

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is an MD, PhD specialist in allergy, paediatrics, general practice and sports medicine, with a clinical focus on dermatology, endocrinology, allergology and sports-related health. He has more than 20 years of clinical experience and completed his medical training at the Medical University of Łódź, where he defended his PhD thesis with distinction. His doctoral research was recognised by the Polish Society of Allergology for its innovative contribution to the field. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive expertise in diagnosing and managing a wide range of allergic and paediatric conditions, including modern allergen desensitisation techniques. For five years, Dr Grzelewski served as the Head of two paediatric departments in Poland, managing complex clinical cases and leading multidisciplinary teams. He also worked in medical centres in the United Kingdom, gaining experience across both primary care and specialist environments. With over a decade of telemedicine experience, he has provided online consultations across Europe and is valued for his clear, structured and evidence-based medical guidance. Dr Grzelewski is actively involved in clinical programmes focused on modern anti-allergic therapies. As a Principal Investigator, he leads research projects on sublingual and oral allergen desensitisation, supporting evidence-based progress in allergy treatment for both children and adults. In addition to his background in allergology and paediatrics, he completed dermatology studies through the Cambridge Education Group (Royal College of Physicians of Ireland) and a Clinical Endocrinology course at Harvard Medical School. This advanced training enhances his ability to manage skin manifestations of allergies, atopic conditions, urticaria, endocrine-related symptoms and complex immunological reactions. Patients commonly seek his care for: 

  • seasonal and perennial allergies
  • allergic rhinitis and chronic nasal symptoms
  • asthma and breathing difficulties
  • food and medication allergies
  • urticaria, atopic dermatitis and skin reactions
  • recurrent infections in children
  • sports-related health questions
  • general family medicine concerns

Dr Tomasz Grzelewski is known for his clear communication style, structured medical approach and ability to explain treatment options in a concise and accessible way. His multidisciplinary background across allergy, paediatrics, dermatology and endocrinology allows him to provide safe, up-to-date and comprehensive care for patients of all ages.

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€106
Doctor
0.0(0)

Daniel Cichi

Family medicinePaediatricsGeneral medicine24 years of experience

Dr Daniel Cichi is a family medicine doctor with over 20 years of clinical experience. He provides online consultations for adults, supporting patients with acute symptoms, chronic conditions, and everyday health concerns that require timely medical guidance. His background includes work in emergency care, ambulance services, and family medicine, which allows him to assess symptoms quickly, identify warning signs, and help patients choose the safest next steps – whether that means home care, treatment adjustment, or in-person evaluation. Patients commonly consult Dr Daniel Cichi for: 

  • acute symptoms: fever, infections, flu-like illness, cough, sore throat, shortness of breath;
  • chest discomfort, palpitations, dizziness, fatigue, and blood pressure concerns;
  • digestive problems: abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, reflux;
  • sexually transmitted infections, erectile dysfunction;
  • muscle, joint, and back pain, minor injuries, post-traumatic symptoms;
  • chronic conditions: hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, weight loss, hair loss;
  • review and interpretation of lab tests, imaging reports, and medical documents;
  • medication review and treatment adjustment;
  • medical advice while travelling or living abroad;
  • second opinions and guidance on whether in-person care is needed.

Dr Cichi’s consultations are structured and practical. He focuses on clear explanations, risk assessment, and actionable recommendations, helping patients understand their symptoms and make informed decisions about their health.

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€69
Doctor
5.0(5)

Lizaveta Trafimchuk Takhvaniuk

DermatologyFamily medicine10 years of experience

Dr. Lizaveta Trafimchuk Takhvaniuk graduated in Medicine and subsequently specialized in Dermatology and Venereology. She has more than 10 years of clinical experience and is licensed to practice in Spain, where she focuses on the comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of dermatological conditions.

Throughout her education and professional career, Dr. Trafimchuk has gained extensive experience in managing diseases of the skin, hair, and nails, as well as in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Her clinical approach is based on evidence-based medicine, combined with personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs.

In her daily practice, she treats a wide range of dermatological conditions, including chronic inflammatory dermatoses such as acne, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema. She also has experience in treating pigmentation disorders, including melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and dyschromia.

She has developed a particular interest in trichology, treating various types of alopecia, chronic hair loss, and scalp disorders. In addition, she has experience in managing infectious dermatoses of fungal, viral, and bacterial origin, as well as in evaluating benign and suspicious skin lesions, with referral to specialized care when necessary.

With a strong interest in a comprehensive approach to skin health, she also treats scars, post-procedural skin changes, and conditions related to hormonal factors and aging, including those associated with pregnancy, menopause, and age-related skin changes.

Thanks to her experience and continuous professional development, Dr. Trafimchuk provides high-quality medical care that is professional, confidential, and aligned with modern dermatology standards.

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€72
Doctor
0.0(0)

Daria Litash

Dermatology2 years of experience

Dr. Daria Litash is an experienced physician specializing in general medicine, weight management, healthy weight loss, and overall wellness. Her approach combines thorough medical assessment with personalized recommendations to help patients improve their health and maintain an active, balanced lifestyle.

During every online consultation, she places particular emphasis on taking a detailed medical history and identifying the underlying causes of symptoms. When clinically appropriate, she recommends blood tests or additional diagnostic investigations to provide a more accurate assessment and create an individualized treatment plan.

Her main areas of expertise include:

  • Healthy weight management and weight loss
  • Overweight treatment and long-term weight maintenance
  • Hair loss assessment and management
  • Skin health evaluation
  • General medical consultations for adults
  • Preventive medicine and healthy lifestyle guidance

Dr. Litash also holds a qualification in Aesthetic Medicine, allowing her to approach skin and hair concerns from both a medical and preventive perspective, always following evidence-based principles and current clinical recommendations.

Her professional background includes several years of experience working in community pharmacy in Spain, providing her with extensive knowledge of medications, treatment options, and therapeutic alternatives available on the Spanish market, as well as experience in selecting international pharmaceutical products when clinically appropriate.

Her online consultations are designed to provide clear, personalized, and patient-centered medical care, helping individuals better understand their health, make informed treatment decisions, and achieve sustainable long-term wellbeing.

Book a video appointment
€96

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