What Should I Do If My Child Has a Lump Under the Skin of Their Penis?

Circumcision is a common condition affecting the male reproductive organ, which can occur not only in adults but also in children. While adults with circumcision can undergo surgical treatment, parents may be concerned about the need for surgical intervention in young children. The treatment options for circumcision include conservative management and surgical intervention, which should be chosen based on the child's specific condition. So, what should be done for pediatric circumcision? Here are some guidelines:

1. Daily Care: Parents should maintain hygiene of the penis by regularly cleaning the accumulated dirt in the foreskin and glans. In case of inflammation (redness, swelling) at the foreskin opening, anti-inflammatory medication or hot compress can be used. If the urination improves after the inflammation resolves, surgical intervention may be temporarily postponed. However, if there is persistent difficulty in urination or foreskin incarceration, early medical attention is advised.

2. Surgical Intervention: Generally, surgical treatment for pediatric circumcision can be performed after the child reaches three or four years of age. However, if the infection spreads to the urinary system, the risk can be more severe. Surgical options include:

(1) In the absence of adhesions, local anesthesia can be used to perform surgical dilation or pneumatic dilation to enlarge the foreskin opening. Pneumatic dilation is a non-invasive procedure that does not cause bleeding or significant discomfort. It involves the use of a balloon catheter to separate the adhesions between the foreskin and the glans, followed by cleaning of the foreskin and application of a topical ointment. The entire procedure takes only a few minutes, and the child can usually cooperate and tolerate it well. Post-operatively, regular cleaning and local hygiene are crucial to prevent re-adhesion.

(2) In cases of severe adhesions, circumcision may be necessary. However, it should be noted that circumcision may result in uneven appearance and pigmentation changes on the glans, which may affect its cosmetic appearance.

Boys may require circumcision due to tight or excessive foreskin. This procedure is generally not complicated, and the child can usually be discharged from the hospital after 1-2 days of observation following the surgery. After returning home, the penis may still be slightly swollen. Parents can use antibiotic suppositories to help reduce swelling, but it is crucial to follow the prescribed dosage. Additionally, warm baths and the application of a thin layer of wound-healing cream on the underwear can also aid in reducing swelling. Complete bed rest is only necessary for the day of the surgery. Within a week, the child should be able to resume normal activities, including riding a bicycle and attending school.