What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Angiofibromas of Penis
• Hirsuties Coronae Glandis
• PPPs (Pearly Penile Papules)

What are Pearly Penile Papules? (Definition/Background Information)

• Pearly Penile Papules (PPPs) are benign, skin-colored, dome-shaped papules that occur on the head of the penis. They are usually 1-2 mm in diameter and their collection on the penis gives them a cobblestone-like appearance
• The papules are arranged along the rim of the glans penis, usually more prominent on the upper portion than the underside. Even though Pearly Penile Papules can be confused for viral warts or molluscum contagiosum, these are not tumors but normal anatomical structures
• There are no clear risk factors identified for the condition and the cause remains unknown. The condition is observed in boys, young, and older men; the incidence of Pearly Penile Papules decreasing as one ages
• Generally, no treatment is required for Pearly Penile Papules; however, if they pose cosmetic concerns, then a surgery or laser excision may be performed. The prognosis of Pearly Penile Papules is excellent, whether treatment is provided or not

Who gets Pearly Penile Papules? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Pearly Penile Papules is a common condition in boys and men, with an incidence rate that varies between 10-35%
• It usually occurs in a wide age range of 10-66 years, but is more common in the 2^nd and 3^rd decade (between 11 and 30 years)
• The condition can occur worldwide and no geographical preference is seen
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected, though the condition is more common in African Americans than Caucasians

What are the Risk Factors for Pearly Penile Papules? (Predisposing Factors)

• The risk factors for Pearly Penile Papules are unknown or unidentified
• However, the condition is more common in uncircumcised males

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Pearly Penile Papules? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Pearly Penile Papules is unknown
• PPP is not contagious and does not spread from one individual to another

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Pearly Penile Papules?

There are no significant signs and symptoms of Pearly Penile Papules apart from their physical characteristics, which include:

• Presence of skin-colored papules on the penile head
• The tiny papules are arranged along the margin of the glans penis
• Multiple papules giving it a cobblestone-like appearance
• The papules are small, well-defined, raised bumps (dome-shaped)

How are Pearly Penile Papules Diagnosed?

The following are the diagnostic methods to help identify Pearly Penile Papules:

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial. A diagnosis of Pearly Penile Papules may be arrived, when a dermatologist visually examines the papules
• A biopsy of the papule is not necessary

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Pearly Penile Papules?

No significant complications have been reported due to Pearly Penile Papules.

• However, some individuals may have stress and anxiety issues fearing that the condition is a sexually transmitted infection
• Some individuals face cosmetic issues due to the appearance of the papules; in such cases, surgery may be proposed

How are Pearly Penile Papules Treated?

There is no treatment required for Pearly Penile Papules, since it is a benign condition.

• Providing reassurance that the condition is harmless and has an excellent outcome; helping with anxiety feelings
• Some individuals may consult healthcare professionals to eliminate the presence of sexually-transmitted infections (if any)
• Individuals  who do not particularly like the cosmetic appearance of the papules, may undergo an electrocautery procedure or laser therapy to have them removed

How can Pearly Penile Papules be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent Pearly Penile Papules.

What is the Prognosis of Pearly Penile Papules? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Pearly Penile Papules is a common, benign (non-cancerous) condition that has an excellent prognosis
• It has no clinical significance, but may cause anxiety in some individuals

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Pearly Penile Papules:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Pearly Penile Papules
• The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse