From the Guidelines
Darkening of the skin on the penile glans can be caused by various factors, including lichen sclerosus, a chronic skin condition characterized by a lymphocytic response, as well as other conditions such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, hormonal changes, genetics, friction, and aging. According to the British Association of Dermatologists' guidelines for the management of lichen sclerosus 2010 1, lichen sclerosus is an autoimmune, inflammatory dermatosis that can affect the genital skin in both sexes. The guidelines also mention that lichen sclerosus has a predilection for the genital skin and is associated with several other autoimmune diseases.
Some key points to consider when evaluating darkening of the skin on the penile glans include:
- Lichen sclerosus, also known as balanitis xerotica obliterans, is a chronic skin condition that can cause darkening of the skin on the penile glans, as described in the study on lichen sclerosus published in The Journal of Urology in 2007 1
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, hormonal changes, genetics, friction, and aging can also contribute to darkening of the skin on the penile glans
- Maintaining good genital hygiene with gentle cleansing using mild soap and water can help prevent irritation-related darkening
- Avoiding harsh soaps, wearing breathable cotton underwear, and using lubrication during sexual activity to reduce friction can also help minimize irritation that might lead to hyperpigmentation
It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if the darkening is accompanied by other symptoms like itching, pain, unusual discharge, or changes in skin texture, as these could be indicative of an underlying condition that requires medical attention, such as penile intraepithelial neoplasia, as discussed in the guidelines for the management of squamous cell carcinoma in situ published in the British Journal of Dermatology in 2014 1.
From the Research
Causes of Penile Glans Darkening of Skin
The darkening of the skin on the penile glans can be caused by various factors, including:
- Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which occurs after cutaneous inflammation 2, 3
- Intrinsic skin conditions, such as acne and eczema 3
- External insults to the skin, such as burn injuries and dermatologic procedures 3
- Reactive hypermelanosis, which develops following cutaneous inflammation 3
Risk Factors
Certain individuals are more prone to developing PIH, including:
- Those with darker skin tones 3, 4
- Individuals with a history of inflammatory skin conditions 3, 4
- Those who have undergone dermatologic procedures or experienced external insults to the skin 3
Treatment Options
Various treatment options are available for PIH, including: