Penil Cancer

Definition

Penile cancer is a rare malignancy that develops in the skin or tissues of the penis, most commonly as squamous cell carcinoma. It typically affects older men but can occur at any age.

Characteristics

Symptoms may include a growth or sore on the penis, usually on the glans or foreskin, that doesn’t heal; bleeding; foul-smelling discharge; and changes in skin color or thickness. Risk factors include HPV infection, poor hygiene, phimosis, and smoking.

Diagnosis and Prognosis

Diagnosis involves physical examination, biopsy of suspicious lesions, and imaging tests to assess potential spread to lymph nodes or other areas. Prognosis depends on the tumor’s size, depth, and spread. Early-stage penile cancer has a good chance of being cured with proper treatment.

Treatment

Treatment may include surgery (ranging from local excision to partial or total penectomy), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapy. Lymph node dissection is often performed if cancer has spread.

Last Revised: 12 May , 2025