Penile cancer is a rare form of cancer that originates in the tissues of the penis. While uncommon, awareness of its signs and symptoms is beneficial. Early detection leads to more effective treatment outcomes. Prompt medical consultation for any unusual changes is advised.
Visual Signs of Penis Cancer
Penile cancer frequently presents with noticeable changes in the appearance of the penis, often affecting the foreskin, the glans (head), or the shaft. Skin color changes, such as reddish, bluish-brown, or discolored areas, are common. These may be accompanied by skin thickening on the penis or foreskin.
Growths or lumps are another common visual sign, which might be painless initially. These can manifest as:
Small, crusty bumps
Flat growths
Sores that do not heal within a few weeks
A reddish, velvety rash, particularly under the foreskin
A wart-like growth
Swelling, especially at the tip of the penis, can also be a visual cue, sometimes making it difficult to retract the foreskin. There might be a persistent, foul-smelling discharge beneath the foreskin, or bleeding from a growth or sore. Any new or persistent abnormality on the penis, even if not painful, warrants medical attention.
Additional Symptoms and Risk Factors
Beyond the visual changes, penile cancer can present with other symptoms, such as unexplained pain during urination or sexual activity. A discharge from the penis or under the foreskin, which may have an unpleasant odor, can also occur. As the disease advances, individuals might experience fatigue, unexplained weight loss, or abdominal pain.
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing penile cancer. Infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is a significant risk factor, accounting for approximately 60% of cases. While HPV is common, most infections do not lead to penile cancer.
Not being circumcised is a risk factor, especially if accompanied by phimosis, a tight foreskin that can lead to smegma buildup and inflammation. Poor hygiene, tobacco use, and a weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV or AIDS also elevate risk. Men over the age of 50 are more commonly diagnosed with penile cancer.
Diagnosis and Medical Consultation
Diagnosis of penile cancer begins with a physical examination by a healthcare provider. The doctor inspects the penis for unusual skin changes, such as lumps, sores, or discoloration, and checks the groin lymph nodes for swelling.
If a suspicious area is identified, a biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis. This involves removing a small tissue sample, usually under local anesthetic, for microscopic examination. Imaging tests, such as MRI, CT scans, or ultrasounds, may be ordered to determine the cancer’s extent and if it has spread to other parts of the body.
Prompt medical attention is advised if any concerning signs or symptoms are noticed. Changes that do not improve within four weeks, or that worsen, should be evaluated. Early diagnosis allows for more effective and less extensive treatment, improving outcomes.
Overview of Treatment Options
Treatment for penile cancer depends on factors such as the cancer’s type and stage, and the individual’s overall health. Surgery is a common treatment, with various procedures available depending on the cancer’s extent. These range from circumcision or wide local excision to remove the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue, to partial or total penectomy for larger or more invasive cancers.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells and can be used alone or in combination with other treatments. It may be delivered externally or internally, and is sometimes employed after surgery to target remaining cancer cells or treat affected lymph nodes. Chemotherapy, which uses drugs to slow or stop cancer growth, can be applied topically as a cream for early-stage cancers or administered systemically for more advanced cases.
Other treatments include laser therapy or cryosurgery, which use light beams or extreme cold to destroy cancer cells for smaller or early-stage tumors. Immunotherapy, which helps the body’s immune system fight cancer cells, is also an option for early-stage cases. Treatment plans are customized to individual needs, often combining these therapies.