Penile Cancer Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

What is Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs when healthy cells in the penis grow uncontrollably. Although rare, any unusual change in the penis should prompt a consultation with a doctor. Penile cancer can develop in different areas of the penis but it is most commonly seen on the glans or foreskin.

As with all types of cancer, early diagnosis is crucial in penile cancer. Cases detected at an early stage can usually be treated successfully. Therefore, any unusual finding in the penis should be evaluated by a doctor without delay.

Penile cancer accounts for less than 1% of all cancers in men and is considered a rare disease. The incidence of this type of cancer is higher in Africa, Asia and South America.

What Causes Penile Cancer?

The exact cause of penile cancer is unknown but certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Men who carry the human papillomavirus (HPV) have a higher risk of developing penile cancer. HPV is also the virus that causes genital warts.

Age factor is also important. Penile cancer is rare in individuals under 40 but occurs more frequently in those over 60. Smoking is the lifestyle factor most strongly associated with penile cancer. The harmful chemicals in cigarettes damage cells in the penile tissue and increase the risk of developing cancer.

Certain health conditions affecting the penis also increase the risk. For example, phimosis, which makes it difficult to retract the foreskin, prepares a basis for infections. Recurrent infections can weaken the immune system and increase the likelihood of developing penile cancer. The factors that can cause penile cancer are listed below:

• HPV infection (especially the types that cause genital warts)
• Old age (especially 60 and over)
• Smoking
• Phimosis (inability to retract the foreskin)
• Recurrent infections

What Are The Symptoms Of Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer is a rare type of cancer that can develop in the skin or internal tissues of the penis. Advances in diagnostic methods, staging processes and treatment options have led to a significant reduction in death rates from penile cancer. Early detection of penile cancer increases the likelihood of successful treatment. The symptoms of penile cancer are listed below:

• Wound or mass that does not heal within 4 weeks
• Bleeding coming from penis or under the foreskin
• Discharge with a bad smell.
• Thickening of penis or foreskin or difficulty in retracting the foreskin (phimosis)
• Change in the color of the penis or foreskin
• Rash or redness on the penis

If any of these symptoms are observed, it is essential to consult a urology specialist without delay. In most cases, these complaints are caused by non-cancerous conditions but early diagnosis is crucial for the successful treatment of penile cancer.

How is Penile Cancer Diagnosed?

The primary method for diagnosing penile cancer is a biopsy. A specialist takes a small sample from the suspicious tissue and has it examined in a laboratory. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia so the patient does not feel pain and can usually go home the same day.

Physical examination is also important in the diagnostic process. The doctor thoroughly examines the penis and surrounding area to identify possible abnormalities. If a suspicious finding is detected, a biopsy may be necessary.

In some cases, imaging techniques are used to determine the spread and stage of the cancer. For this purpose, tests such as penile Doppler ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and PET/CT can be used. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by using these methods together. Then, an appropriate treatment plan is developed based on the stage of the cancer. The diagnostic methods for penile cancer are listed below:

• Physical examination
• Biopsy
• Ultrasound (penile doppler)
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• PET/CT

What Are The Types Of Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer consists of different subtypes. The majority of these cancers actually fall into the category of skin cancer. However, some types may originate from structures such as blood vessels, sweat glands or connective tissue. To determine the type of tumor, a pathology specialist examines a small biopsy sample of the cells under a microscope.

The type of penile cancer directly influences the treatment method to be used. For example, squamous cell carcinoma of the penis usually does not respond well to radiotherapy, while some other types of penile cancer may respond better to it. The types of penile cancer are listed below:

• Melanoma
• Squamous cell carcinoma.
• Basal cell carcinoma
• Sarcoma
• Adenocarcinoma
• Penile adenocarcinoma
• Carcinoma in situ
• Penile sarcoma
• Penile melanoma
• Verrucous carcinoma

How is Penile Cancer Treated?

Surgery is the most commonly used method in the treatment of penile cancer. Surgical treatment is the primary approach for penile cancer. In some cases, radiotherapy may be applied in addition to surgery. Radiotherapy can be used as an alternative to surgery or as a complementary treatment. In early-stage tumors, local treatments may be preferred while chemotherapy can be used for advanced or large tumors. Chemotherapy is preferred for tumors that have spread or are large.

The goal of the treatment plan is to control the cancer while preserving the appearance and function of the penis as much as possible. In advanced cases, treatment may not aim for complete cure but is applied to slow tumor growth, prevent spread and relieve symptoms. Physicians from different specialities may be involved in the treatment of penile cancer. These specialists are:

• Urologist
• Radiation Oncologist
• Medical Oncologist

In addition, nurses, psychologists, social workers and rehabilitation teams can also support the treatment process.

The treatment of penile cancer is tailored according to the stage of the disease and the patient’s general health condition. Surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and local treatments can be applied in various combinations.

What Are The Ways To Prevent Penile Cancer?

To prevent penile cancer, it is important to get the HPV vaccine, have regular urology examinations, avoid smoking and follow safe sex practices. Caution should be exercised regarding penis enlargement methods, as incorrect procedures performed without specialist approval may increase the risk of penile cancer later on.

The most important risk factors for penile cancer include HPV infection, smoking, sexually transmitted infections, being uncircumcised and advanced age.

Which Department Deals With Penile Cancer?

The diagnosis and treatment of penile cancer are managed within the “Urology” medical unit (especially the uro-oncology subspecialty)

Frequently Asked Questions About Penile Cancer

Frequently asked questions and answers about penile cancer are listed below.

Does Penile Cancer Affect Sexual Activity?

Sexual life can be affected depending on the stage of the disease and the treatment.

Does Circumcision Increase The Risk Of Penile Cancer?

Circumcision, especially when performed in infancy or early childhood, is associated with a lower risk of penile cancer, while being uncircumcised is considered a risk factor.

Can Penile Cancer Be Prevented?

Penile cancer cannot be completely prevented but the risk can be reduced through HPV vaccination, avoiding tobacco, practicing safe sex and maintaining good genital hygiene.

What Causes Sores On The Male Genital Organ?

Sores on the male genital organ are often caused by sexually transmitted infections or fungal infections.

What Causes Warts On The Male Genital Organ?

Warts on the male genital organ are genital warts caused by low risk types of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV).