Penile cancer is a rare but serious type of cancer that occurs on the skin or within the tissues of the penis. It typically begins in the cells of the outer layer of the penis and can spread to deeper tissues, lymph nodes, and other organs if not detected early. The most common type of penile cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which develops in the flat cells of the penile skin.
Penile cancer develops when abnormal cells in the penis grow uncontrollably, leading to tumor formation. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Key Points:
Rare but aggressive – Though uncommon, penile cancer can spread rapidly if untreated.
Early detection is crucial – Symptoms like sores, lumps, or discoloration should be examined.
Linked to HPV infection – Human papillomavirus (HPV) increases the risk.
Higher risk in uncircumcised men – Poor hygiene and smegma accumulation contribute.
More common in older men – Typically affects individuals over 50 years old.
The exact cause of penile cancer is not always clear, but several risk factors increase its likelihood.
HPV infection – The human papillomavirus is a significant risk factor.
Phimosis – A condition where the foreskin is too tight, leading to poor hygiene.
Chronic inflammation – Long-term infections and irritation can contribute to cancer.
Smoking – Increases the likelihood of developing penile cancer.
Age – Most cases occur in men over 50.
Poor genital hygiene – Accumulation of smegma and lack of cleaning raises risk.
UV light treatment for psoriasis – PUVA therapy may increase cancer risk.
Penile cancer symptoms can be mistaken for infections or other skin conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Common Symptoms:
Persistent sores or ulcers on the penis
Lumps or thickened skin on the shaft or glans
Redness, rash, or irritation
Bleeding or discharge from the penis
Foul-smelling fluid under the foreskin
Pain or swelling in the penis
Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin
Penile cancer is classified based on the type of cells involved.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Most Common)
Arises in the skin of the penis.
Accounts for over 90% of penile cancer cases.
Basal Cell Carcinoma
Develops in the basal cells of the penis.
Less aggressive and slow-growing.
Melanoma
Rare but aggressive.
Develops in the pigment-producing cells.
Adenocarcinoma (Paget’s Disease)
Originates in the sweat glands of the penile skin.
Uncommon but invasive.
Sarcoma
Develops in connective tissues.
Includes fibrosarcoma and leiomyosarcoma.
Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Doctors use several tests to detect and confirm penile cancer.
Physical Examination – A doctor inspects the penis for abnormal growths.
Biopsy – A tissue sample is taken for laboratory analysis.
HPV Testing – Determines if HPV infection is present.
Imaging Tests:
Ultrasound – Helps assess tumor size.
MRI or CT Scan – Identifies cancer spread.
PET Scan – Detects distant metastases.
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy – Determines if cancer has spread to lymph nodes.
Treatment depends on the stage, location, and spread of the cancer. The goal is to remove cancer while preserving function.
Circumcision – Removes affected foreskin (for early-stage cases).
Wide Local Excision – Removes the tumor and surrounding healthy tissue.
Glans Resurfacing – Reconstructs the affected glans with skin grafting.
Partial Penectomy – Removes part of the penis while preserving function.
Total Penectomy – Complete removal of the penis (for advanced cancer).
Lymph Node Dissection – Removes affected lymph nodes in the groin.
Uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
Can be used as primary treatment or post-surgery.
Systemic or topical chemotherapy may be used.
Effective in cases where cancer has spread.
Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
Used in advanced cases with metastasis.
Focuses on symptom management and quality of life.
Includes pain relief and emotional support.
The prognosis depends on early detection, stage, and response to treatment.
Localized (early-stage) cancer – 5-year survival rate of 80-90%.
Regional spread (lymph nodes involved) – 5-year survival rate drops to 50-60%.
Distant metastasis (spread to other organs) – 5-year survival rate is below 10%.
Tumor size and depth of invasion.
Lymph node involvement.
HPV status.
Patient’s overall health and response to treatment.
While penile cancer cannot always be prevented, certain measures can reduce risk.
HPV vaccination – Reduces the risk of HPV-related penile cancer.
Good genital hygiene – Regular washing prevents infections.
Safe sexual practices – Reduces HPV transmission risk.
Quitting smoking – Lowers the risk of developing cancer.
Regular medical check-ups – Early detection improves treatment success.
Managing penile cancer involves treatment, follow-up care, and lifestyle changes.
Regular medical check-ups for early detection of recurrence.
Maintaining hygiene to prevent infections.
Psychological counseling for emotional well-being.
Support groups for patients and families.
Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and adopting a healthy diet.