Overview
Penile cancer occurs when malignant penile cancer cells begin to grow uncontrollably. The penis is the male reproductive organ, similar to the shape of a rod. Cancer may arise in any region of the penis but commonly affects the foreskin or head of the penis. Certain risk factors, such as smoking, HPV infection, poor hygiene, and phimosis, can increase the likelihood of developing penile cancer.
What are the typical signs of penile cancer?
Discolouration of the penis skin or an apparent lump is a significant sign of penile cancer.
Other common symptoms include the following:
- A bleeding lump or sore on the penis
- Irritation and swelling at the penis tip
- Skin discolouration
- Thickening of the penis skin
- Discoloured growths
- Unpleasant-smelling liquid beneath the foreskin
- Tiny, crusty bumps
- Skin rash in the area
How do you diagnose penile cancer?
The following tests are carried out to determine whether penile cancer is present:
- A comprehensive physical examination: Your doctor checks for abnormal changes to the penis skin. It's also important to determine if changes to the penis skin are due to an allergic reaction or infection.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is an accurate way of determining if penile cancer is present. The process involves the resection of cells or suspicious tissue from the region. A pathologist then examines these cells in detail beneath the microscope.
- Imaging studies: Ultrasound, MRI scan, and CT scan are types of imaging studies that may be used to identify cancerous cells.
How do you treat penile cancer?
There are several ways to treat penile cancer, all of which have shown promising results. These include:
- Medicated (chemotherapy) creams: These are prescription creams that may be applied to the penis directly. This is a common treatment modality for penile cancer in its early stages. It's a common procedure to perform circumcision before applying these creams.
- Laser therapy: The laser acts like a powerful knife and is used to cut away superficial cancerous cells from the penis.
- Surgical excision: This surgical procedure is performed to remove the tumour or nearby cancerous cells from the penis.
- Radiation therapy: Extremely powerful energy beams are used to eradicate cancerous cells or shrink the tumour before surgery.
FAQ
Yes, when penile cancer is detected early, it can be effectively treated, offering a good chance of a full recovery.
When penile cancer is caught during its early stages, it can often be treated successfully. The prognosis for penile cancer varies depending on the stage at diagnosis and the specific characteristics of the cancer, but early detection and treatment can significantly improve the chances of a good outcome.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are considered concerning urological symptoms?
- A weak urinary stream
- Signs of bladder stones
- Difficulty urinating
- Pain