Penile Cancer Overview
Penile cancer starts in the tissues of the penis, the male organ used for urination and sexual intercourse. Most penile tumors begin in the thin, flat cells that form the surface of the skin (squamous cells) on the head of the penis (glans) or the foreskin.
Most penile cancers are classified as squamous cell carcinoma or another type of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinoma or melanoma. If left untreated, the tumor may spread into deeper penile tissues and other areas of the body.
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Schedule an AppointmentHow rare is penile cancer?
Overall, penile cancer is quite rare, accounting for less than 1% of cancers affecting men in developed countries. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 2,000 new cases are diagnosed annually in the United States, with an incidence rate of approximately 1 in 100,000 men per year. The condition is more common in certain regions of Africa, Asia and South America, where limited access to healthcare for early detection and preventive measures may contribute to its prevalence.
At what age is penile cancer common?
Penile cancer is most frequently diagnosed in men 50 and older, particularly those in their 60s and 70s. Its incidence among younger men is exceedingly rare.
How long does penile cancer last?
The duration of penile cancer can vary depending on its stage at diagnosis, the chosen treatment approach and the tumor’s response to therapy. With prompt treatment, early-stage penile cancer may be cured or go into remission quickly, often within several weeks to months.
Advanced penile cancer may require prolonged treatment and follow-up, potentially lasting up to several months or longer. Because recurrence can occur many years after the initial treatment is completed, regular monitoring is essential, particularly if the tumor was diagnosed at a late stage.
What causes penile cancer?
The precise cause of penile cancer is not yet fully understood. Some experts believe penile tumors may form when bodily fluids become trapped within the foreskin. As such, men who are uncircumcised or practice poor genital hygiene are thought to be at increased risk.
What are the risk factors for penile cancer?
In addition to advanced age, lack of circumcision and poor genital hygiene, risk factors for penile cancer include:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Smoking and other forms of tobacco use
- Weakened immune system
What are the symptoms of penile cancer?
Early signs of penile cancer may be visible on the glans, foreskin or shaft of the penis. Common symptoms include:
- A painless lump or thickened area of skin
- An ulcer that does not heal
- A sore that may repeatedly bleed and crust over
- A red, velvety rash
- Small, crusty bumps
- Flat, bluish-brown growths
- Odorous discharge under the foreskin
- Swelling
In addition to penile cancer, most of these symptoms can also result from a less serious bacterial or fungal infection or allergic reaction. Even so, it is important to promptly discuss any unusual changes with a physician who can provide a proper diagnosis. When detected early, penile cancer can often be effectively treated and even cured.
How is penile cancer diagnosed?
Typically, penile cancer is diagnosed through a physical examination followed by a biopsy. This procedure involves removing a small amount of suspicious tissue from the penis. The sample will then be sent to a laboratory for microscopic examination by a pathologist, who can identify cancerous cells.
How is penile cancer treated?
For a relatively small penile lesion, surgery is often the primary treatment. By using minimally invasive techniques such as cryosurgery, which freezes and destroys cancerous cells, a surgeon can minimize any disruption to the surrounding healthy tissues, helping to maintain the function and appearance of the penis.
Advanced penile cancer may require more extensive surgery, which may involve removing lymph nodes near the penis. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be considered.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about penile cancer
The following FAQs-related article provides additional information about penile cancer:
Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center
Moffitt is proud to have transformed the traditional cancer care model. We emphasize rapid care so our patients can begin treatment as soon as possible, which is the key to achieving the optimal outcome and quality of life.
As a high-volume cancer center, Moffitt sees many patients and treats all forms of male genitourinary cancer, including complex and uncommon penile tumors. Nationally recognized for our multispecialty approach, we offer a comprehensive range of treatment options for penile cancer, including traditional surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as well as innovative cryosurgery and laser therapy.
At Moffitt, our patients also have opportunities to participate in groundbreaking clinical trials where they can be among the first to benefit from promising new treatment options that are not yet available elsewhere. Past studies have helped our oncologists make several important advances, such as maintaining penile sensation and urinary function after treatment. For our extensive research efforts, Moffitt was named a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute.
If you would like to learn more about penile cancer, you can request an appointment with a specialist in our Urologic Oncology Program by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.