Smegma Cysts – in children

What is a smegma cyst?

Smegma is made up of normal secretions from the skin including dead skin cells and oils. Smegma cysts are small, white/yellow nodules (lumps) of these accumulated skin cells and natural secretions which have become trapped under the foreskin. Smegma cysts may also be called ‘preputial pearls’ and are commonly found in un-circumcised boys.

Why do smegma cysts occur and what are the symptoms?

At birth the foreskin and glans (head of the penis) are stuck together and during childhood the foreskin and glans separate from each other. As the separation occurs, the foreskin gradually becomes more retractile. In most boys, the foreskin is fully retractile by puberty.

As the foreskin and glans start to separate there can be a build-up of smegma between the foreskin and the glans penis, and the dead skin cells and oils can get trapped and build up into a visible lump. This then becomes a smegma cyst.

Smegma cysts can break down (discharge) spontaneously; this often has an appearance similar to a whitish cottage cheese-like substance, which can sometimes be seen in boys’ nappies or underwear.

Smegma cysts are usually painless and do not cause any problems with passing urine but occasionally they can cause mild redness or irritation as they resolve.

Treatment and Management

Smegma cysts do not require treatment as they are painless, do not affect the ability to pass urine and will resolve on their own as the foreskin separates and becomes retractile.

Warm baths and gentle, daily cleansing are recommended.

Do not attempt to squeeze or "pop" a smegma cyst, as this can cause infection and pain.

Smegma cysts are not contagious.

Do smegma cysts cause any long-term problems?

Smegma cysts do not cause any long-term problems. They are a normal part of growth and development for many boys.

When to seek medical advice

Medical advice should be sought if the cyst becomes painful, infected, causes swelling, or if the foreskin becomes difficult to retract when previously could be retracted with ease.

Chaperoning

During your child’s hospital visits your child will need to be examined to help diagnose and to plan care.

Examination, which may take place before, during and after treatment, is performed by trained members of staff and will always be explained to you beforehand. A chaperone is a separate member of staff who is present during the examination.

The role of the chaperone is to provide practical assistance with the examination and to provide support to the child, family member/ carer and to the person examining.

Contacts/Further Information

Paediatric surgery/urology clinical nurse specialist team

Office: 01223 586973

(Mon to Fri 08:00 to 18:00 except bank holidays)