Why is There a Purple Ring on the Glans of My Penis?

A ring of purple color on the glans penis may be caused by blood stasis. If accompanied by itching or pain, it could indicate balanitis. Balanitis, also known as glans penis inflammation, refers to an inflammation of the glans penis caused by factors such as trauma, irritation, or infection. Since balanitis often coexists with inflammation of the inner plate of the foreskin, it is usually referred to as balanoposthitis. The main clinical manifestations include local redness, swelling, erosion, and ulceration.

Balanoposthitis can retrogradely infect the urinary system, causing cystitis, pyelonephritis, etc. If the inflammation persists for a long time without being cured, it can directly affect sexual function, leading to phenomena such as impotence and premature ejaculation. This condition is more common in summer and autumn and mostly occurs in young and middle-aged men, especially those with redundant foreskin or phimosis.

1. Acute superficial balanitis is mainly seen in sexually active young and middle-aged individuals. The infecting bacteria are usually consistent with the strains of bacterial vaginosis in sexual partners. Initially, there is local skin flushing, and a burning and itching sensation is felt on the glans penis. During the acute phase, opening the foreskin reveals edema, erythema, erosion, exudation, and bleeding on the glans penis. In severe cases, vesicles may appear. If secondary infection occurs, ulcers may form, covered with purulent exudate, and local pain and tenderness are evident.

2. Circinate balanitis may be an early mucosal lesion of Reiter's syndrome or may be related to long-term irritation by smegma. Clinically, erythema appears on the glans penis and gradually expands, forming a circular or multi-circular pattern, which may later develop into shallow ulcers. The main feature of this condition is one to several circular lesions on the glans penis, with a central red eroded surface and a narrow white margin forming a ring-like pattern. Secondary infection can exacerbate symptoms and lose their circular characteristics.