Penile Cancer

Penile cancer usually forms on or under the foreskin at the glans penis (the cone-shaped end of the penis). It is uncommon in the United States and even rarer in men who have been circumcised.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes about one-third of penile cancer cases. When found early, penile cancer is usually curable.

Risk Factors For Penile Cancer

men who are circumcised have a lower risk of penile cancer. This is because circumcision may help prevent infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Men who were not circumcised at birth may have a higher risk of developing penile cancer. Other risk factors for penile cancer include:

• Being age 60 or older
• Longstanding irritation under the penis
• Many sexual partners
• Phimosis (this is when the foreskin of the penis cannot be pulled back over the glans)
• Poor personal hygiene
• Smoking or using tobacco products.

Symptoms of Penile Cancer

Signs of penile cancer include sores, discharge, and bleeding.

Other symptoms include redness, irritation, or a sore or lump on the penis that does not heal.

Diagnosis of Penile Cancer

A doctor will conduct a physical exam and ask you about your lifestyle and any history of relevant conditions. They may also order the following tests and procedures to diagnose penile cancer:

• Biopsy - this is when a small sample of cells are taken so that they can be viewed under a microscope
• Sometimes imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Treatment of Penile Cancer

Treatments for penile cancer may include:

• Topical fluorouracil or imiquimod
• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy.

In most men, cancers are small and have not spread.