Pigmentation/Discolouration on the glans

[MagnusMessi]

hey,

Apparently I have brown/dark skin on the right of my penis glans (just next to the urethra opening) for some 3+ years now.

I recently went to see a consultant and the following were his words (as in the report):

"There was an area of pigmentation on the glans of the penis, this did not appear cancerous today and I have suggested you photograph the area and keep it under review on a monthly basis and should it change it may require a diagnostic biopsy."

I really would like to get rid of the discolouration if it is possible in any way. What approach I should take? Is there any items I can try at home, like an application of cream or skin of fruits or vegetables or something else?

I am happy to share a picture link which can show this issue.

Thank you in advance.

[Norwich1 Moderator]

please, no pics or pic links. Have you tried to get a second opinion?

[MagnusMessi in reply to Norwich1]

Hey @Norwich1,

Thank you for your reply.

No I haven't tried to get a second opinion as I saw the first consultant privately and I am not sure if second opinion will help.

[nomad3]

I have had a similar dark spot as long as I can remember and I am 78. Removal would probably involve removal of tisssue and be a last resort. Bleaching may be possible but exposing that area to chemicals probably unwise. If its really bothers you a biopsy would put your mind at rest but the doc is playing safe and given sensible advice.

[MagnusMessi in reply to nomad3]

Thank you nomad3 for your reply. Doc told me that biopsy is a bit painful, so I need to take time to think about it.

[Timthemoth]

I think you need to be very careful on what you put on the glans skin (given how sensitive it is) and follow medical advice on whatever you apply.At least the consultant confirmed it was not something to worry about and you now know what to do: monitor any changes. Did you ask the consultant if any cream or ointment would help? Can you contact his office and ask as follow-up question without booking another appointment?

Variation in pigmentation on male genitals is common within and across the racial groups: some subtle and some quite striking. For some reason I have darker patch on the underside of my shaft. I asked a doctor once and she said that it would have occurred as my genitals formed as a foetus!

[MagnusMessi in reply to Timthemoth]

Thank you Timthemoth for your reply. The doc did not prescribe any medication during the appointment (nor I asked about it), however I should follow-up as you suggested.

[Norwich1 Moderator]

if you have been offered a biopsy then there must be some doubt. Best to have the biopsy and be sure rather than take the chance based on what marks others have on their penises

[MagnusMessi in reply to Norwich1]

True, I haven't given it much thought to be honest. I will do my research and then make a decision about it.

[Timthemoth in reply to MagnusMessi]

Hey mate. Forgot to ask...have you always had the pigmentation or did it appear over time?

[MagnusMessi in reply to Timthemoth]

It appeared 3 to 4 years ago where I was going through very stressful time in my life. I am not sure whether pigmentation has changed in colour over these years.

[Timthemoth in reply to MagnusMessi]

Could it be sun-related too? Any exposure to the harsh rays?

[MagnusMessi in reply to Timthemoth]

Don't think so. It might due to me being vegetarian where the dermatologist told me that I may not have enough b12 and iron levels. Sadly, I also have dark patches around my mouth and in both armpits, but they all are different conditions as told by the dermatologist.

[Timthemoth in reply to MagnusMessi]

Interesting . Never heard that B12/iron deficiency could lead to pigmentation issues. B12 is a tricky vitamin to absorb for some ppl I understand. They lack "intrinsic factor" in gut and need injections. Do you get your B12 and iron levels tested?

Usually plenty of B12/iron in lacto-ovo-veg diet but vegans are recommended to take supplements from the guidance I've read.

I'm pesco-veg but pop 7mg iron tab daily and a B complex 2 or 3 times a week just in case and to techno-colour my wee!

[MagnusMessi in reply to Timthemoth]

I haven't had a blood test in a while. I do not feel a lot of tiredness (which us what b12 is for, I guess). I try to get my vitamins from food, but I do understand it is challenging to get recommended daily dose.

[Captainwinky41]

definitely get a second opinion, go and see a dermatologist or urologist. I had similar issue with a sensitive spot on glans corona “the rim “ of the glans , it’s a spot that rubs my underwear all the time and can be raw and painful, 1st doc wanted to slice skin off my cock and head I was like oh nope , got second opinion and found something that worked . I will say it’s a damp area and things can always change but a second opinion never hurts and you might find more confidence in the second Dr

[MagnusMessi in reply to Captainwinky41]

Thank you for your reply Captainwinky41 . Yes, you are right about getting a second opinion. I went to see the dermatologist with lots of issues related to dark patches on my body, but I found him a bit uninterested