What is the white dirt on the glans penis?

White dirt on the glans may be smegma, which is usually caused by excessive foreskin or poor local hygiene. Smegma is mainly formed by a mixture of exfoliated epithelial cells, sebaceous gland secretions and bacteria, and may be accompanied by redness, swelling, itching and other symptoms of the foreskin. If combined with infection, you need to be alert to diseases such as balanitis.

1. Physiological smegma

Uncircumcised men are prone to white dirt due to accumulation of secretions on the inner plate of the foreskin, which can be removed by daily cleaning. It is recommended to use warm water to clean gently and avoid damaging the mucous membranes by rubbing hard. For those with excessive foreskin, the foreskin should be completely turned up to clean the coronal sulcus, and the area should be kept dry after cleaning.

2. Fungal balanitis

Candida albicans infection can cause a cheese-like white film on the glans penis, accompanied by severe itching and burning. May be related to diabetes and long-term use of antibiotics. A fungal microscopy is required to confirm the diagnosis. Antifungal drugs such as clotrimazole cream and miconazole nitrate powder can be used as directed by the doctor. In severe cases, fluconazole capsules can be taken orally.

3. Bacterial balanitis

Streptococcus or Staphylococcus infection can cause white purulent discharge from the glans penis, often accompanied by redness, swelling and pain. It is necessary to conduct bacterial culture and select sensitive antibiotics, such as topical mupirocin ointment or oral cefaclor dispersible tablets. People with recurring symptoms need to have their phimosis checked out.

4.Atopic dermatitis

Contact with allergenic substances such as condoms and detergents may cause white scaling of the glans, accompanied by papules or edema. Suspicious items need to be stopped immediately, rinsed with saline, and in severe cases, use desonide cream as directed by the doctor. Choose non-irritating cleaning products every day.

5. Psoriasis skin lesions

A small number of patients with psoriasis will develop white scaly patches with clear borders on the glans penis, which usually have no symptoms. A dermatological biopsy is required for diagnosis, and symptoms can be controlled with topical calcipotriol ointment or tacrolimus ointment. Avoid scratching to prevent secondary infection.

You should pay attention to cleaning your external genitalia every day and choose breathable cotton underwear. For patients with excessive foreskin and recurrent inflammation, it is recommended that the urology department evaluate whether circumcision is needed. If you experience persistent redness, swelling, ulceration or painful urination, you should seek medical advice promptly and avoid using strong hormone ointments on your own. Diabetics need to strictly control their blood sugar to reduce the risk of infection.