Penile cancer, although rare, primarily affects the skin of the penis and the foreskin—the layer of skin covering the penile head. This malignancy most commonly occurs in men over the age of 50, though anyone with a penis is susceptible. The severity of penile cancer depends on factors such as tumour size, the spread of it, and overall health. Early detection significantly improves the likelihood of successful treatment and, therefore, is crucial.
What is Penile Cancer?
It involves the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within the tissues of the penis. The condition is rare, but early warning signs can help in early intervention and treatment.
Symptoms of Penile Cancer
Main Symptoms
This cancer typically affects the foreskin, head, or tip of the penis. Common symptoms include:
- A growth, lump, or sore that does not heal within four weeks.
- A noticeable rash.
- Bleeding from the penis or underneath the foreskin.
- A foul-smelling discharge.
- Difficulty in retracting the foreskin (phimosis).
- Changes in the colour of the penile or foreskin skin.
Additional Symptoms
In more advanced cases, symptoms may extend beyond the genital area to include:
- A noticeable lump in the groin.
- Persistent fatigue.
- Abdominal pain.
- Unintended weight loss.
Causes of Penile Cancer
Main Causes
This cancer’s etiology can be multifaceted, but approximately half of all cases are linked to the human papillomavirus (HPV):
- HPV Exposure: Infection through skin-to-skin genital contact, vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and sharing sex toys.
Risk Factors
Several factors can elevate the risk of developing this cancer:
- Age: Predominantly affects men over 50.
- Smoking: Facilitates carcinogenesis.
- Phimosis: Difficulty in retracting the foreskin can lead to poor hygiene and subsequent irritation.
- Psoriasis Treatment: Use psoralens and ultraviolet A (UVA) light treatment.
- Weakened Immune System: Conditions like HIV.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection enhances treatment success rates and reduces the need for invasive procedures. Regular self-examinations and prompt medical consultations for abnormalities are essential.
How to Lower Your Chance of Getting Penile Cancer
Preventive measures include maintaining excellent genital hygiene, avoiding risky sexual behaviours, and considering circumcision, which has been linked to a decreased risk of cancer. Vaccination against HPV can also be preventive.
Tests and Next Steps for Penile Cancer
Main Test
A biopsy remains the cornerstone for diagnosing penile cancer. This procedure involves extracting a small tissue sample from the affected area under local anaesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort.
Post-Biopsy
After the biopsy, results are typically available within a few weeks. Follow-ups and additional diagnostic tests will help determine the cancer’s stage and inform treatment plans.
Treatment for Penile Cancer
Early-Stage Treatments
Treatments for early-detected cancer are often minimally invasive, including:
- Topical Creams: Chemotherapy cream (e.g., fluorouracil) and immunotherapy creams (e.g., imiquimod).
- Laser Treatment: Effective for small areas.
- Cryotherapy: Uses extreme cold to ablate cancer cells.
Advanced Treatments
For more extensive cancer, treatment may include:
- Surgery: Options range from local excision to partial or total penectomy, depending on the tumour’s extent.
- Chemotherapy: Administered pre- or post-surgery or in conjunction with radiotherapy.
- Radiotherapy: High-energy rays to eradicate cancer cells, used in various stages.
What Happens If You’re Told Your Cancer Cannot Be Cured
For advanced penile cancer that is difficult to treat, a symptom control team or palliative care team will assist in managing symptoms to improve quality of life.
Living with Penile Cancer
Though living with this cancer can be challenging, support systems and careful management can help patients cope better with the diagnosis and treatment side effects.
At Avicenna International Hospital, we provide comprehensive care and support for penile cancer patients. Furthermore, for personalized care and more information about penile cancer treatment in Turkey, contact us today.
The first noticeable symptoms are often a lump, mass, or ulcer on the penis that does not heal within four weeks.
It is highly treatable, especially if detected early. Early-stage penile cancer can often be treated successfully with topical treatments or minor surgical procedures.
The aggressiveness varies; however, approximately 95% of penile cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which can be aggressive if not treated promptly. Therefore, early detection is key to successful treatment and management.
Life expectancy for patients depends on the stage at diagnosis. Early-stage penile cancer has a high survival rate, while advanced stages with metastasis have a more guarded prognosis. Regular follow-ups and prompt treatment significantly improve outcomes.
