What causes spots on the penis — and when should they be medically assessed?

Spots on the penis can be harmless anatomical variants or signs of infection, inflammation, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In this episode, we explain the most common causes, how doctors assess penile lesions, and when urgent evaluation is required in Europe.

You’ll learn:

• Normal findings such as Fordyce spots, pearly penile papules, and visible sebaceous glands

• Infectious causes including genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV) warts, fungal infection, and syphilis

• Inflammatory conditions such as balanitis or contact dermatitis

• The difference between painless ulcers, blisters, raised bumps, and flat discolouration

• When STI testing, swabs, or blood tests may be recommended after clini ...