"What are the symptoms of genital warts in men?"
Common Symptoms of Male Genital Warts and Their Explanations
The common symptoms of male genital warts include urethral itching, small bumps on the foreskin of the penis, redness and swelling of the glans penis, white patches, and scrotal eczema. If these symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
1. Urethral Itching
When a patient is infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV), it can lead to skin and mucous membrane lesions around the genitals, triggering an inflammatory response. Inflammatory factors stimulate local tissues, causing itching symptoms. The urethra is the channel for urination. If there is inflammation or irritation from foreign objects, itching may occur in this area.
2. Small Bumps on the Foreskin of the Penis
These are primarily benign proliferative lesions caused by HPV infection, forming proud fleshy growths due to excessive growth of epidermal cells. These small bumps typically appear on the foreskin of the penis, either singly or in clusters, and may sometimes be accompanied by pain or bleeding.
3. Redness and Swelling of the Glans Penis
This may be an inflammatory response caused by poor local hygiene, friction, allergies, or other trauma. Redness and swelling of the glans penis may be accompanied by pain, a burning sensation, and abnormal secretions.
4. White Patches
White patches may be manifestations of excessive keratinization on the surface of genital warts or healing ulcers. These patches usually appear in places such as the coronal sulcus and glans penis, with various shapes and sizes, and sometimes resolve spontaneously.
5. Scrotal Eczema
Scrotal eczema is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to a damp environment or poor personal hygiene, but it can also be due to genetic factors or immune system abnormalities. Typical manifestations include skin lesions such as redness, papules, and blisters, accompanied by severe itching.