Penile cancer is a rare form of cancer that most often begins in the glans (head) or foreskin, with the majority being squamous cell carcinomas. Though it affects only about 1 in 100,000 men in developed countries, early detection is critical.
Key risk factors include HPV infection, poor hygiene, phimosis, smoking, and chronic inflammation. Symptoms may include a persistent sore, lump, skin changes, foul odor, or swollen groin lymph nodes.
Diagnosis involves physical exams, biopsies, and imaging to assess spread. Treatment varies by stage and can include local excision, circumcision, or more extensive surgery like partial or total penectomy. Advanced cases may require radiation or chemotherapy.
A rare cancer that forms in the tissues of the penis, most often the glans (head) or foreskin. About 95% of cases are squamous cell carcinoma.
Though uncommonâabout 1 in 100,000 men in developed countriesâitâs important to catch it early for the best outcomes.
HPV infection, especially high-risk strains, underlies many cases.
Poor hygiene, phimosis (inability to retract foreskin), and smegma buildâup can raise risk.
Smoking, chronic inflammation (balanitis, lichen sclerosus), and being uncircumcised also increase risk.
A persistent sore or ulcer on the penis, possibly bleeding or crusting
New bump or lump, often painless
Skin changes: discoloration, thickening, or rash
Discharge or foul odor, especially under foreskin
Swollen lymph nodes in your groinÂ
If any symptom persists more than a few weeks, see a urologist promptly.
Physical exam of the penis and groin lymph nodesÂ
Biopsy to confirm cancer presence and type
Imaging scans (ultrasound, MRI, CT) to check extent of disease and lymph node involvement
Ranges from Stage 0 (cancer in situ) to Stage IV, based on tumor size, invasion depth, lymph node spread, and metastasis.
Treatment depends on stage and risk factors:
Early/low-risk disease: organ-preserving surgery (e.g., wide excision, laser therapy), possibly circumcision or topical treatment to avoid penectomy.
More advanced cases: partial or total penectomy plus removal of lymph nodes in groin (inguinal dissection).
Other therapies: radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and possibly biologic agents in advanced disease.
Highly curable when found early, with 5-year survival rates as high as 79â100% for localized disease.
Survival drops to around 51% if it has spread to regional lymph nodes .
Overall global 5âyear survival is roughly 50%, as many cases are detected late .
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HPV vaccination can protect against high-risk strains linked to penile cancer.
Regular genital hygiene: clean under foreskin daily with mild soap and water.
Quit smoking, seek prompt treatment for conditions like phimosis, balanitis, or chronic irritation.
Consider early circumcision in cases of recurrent foreskin issuesâthough routine neonatal circumcision isn’t universally recommended.
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Early detection is vital. If you notice any persistent sores, lumps, or unusual changes, consult your urologist right away. Timely care can preserve both function and quality of life.
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