Penile Cancer
Cancer of the penis can occur anywhere along the penile shaft, but most are on the foreskin or head (glans).�
It is usually a slow-growing cancer and is curable if discovered early.
How is it caused?
Cancer of the penis is, in a sense, a disease of poor hygiene. It is believed that the decaying cells of the undersurface of the foreskin (smegma) produce irritation leading to cancer.
What are the symptoms?
It typically begins as a raised lump or lesion on the penis. It can begin more as an area of unexplained change in the color of the skin.
How is it diagnosed?
Like most cancers, this is diagnosed by means of a biopsy.
What is the treatment?
Treatment is determined by the tumor size and staging. If the tumor is small and local, it can be treated surgically, chemically, or with radiation or laser without major damage to the appearance or function of the penis.�
If it has penetrated the deeper penile tissues or is large, surgery is the preferred treatment for most men. Radiation is an option but results are less certain.�
If the tumor has spread to lymph nodes, surgery or radiation is used. Chemotherapy is of little value in extensive carcinoma of the penis.
