Penile Cancer
Penile cancer is a rare form of cancer that develops in the skin or tissues of the penis. Most cases begin in the squamous cells, which cover the surface of the penis. Early diagnosis is crucial, as treatment is most effective in the initial stages.
Common Symptoms
- A sore, lump, or ulcer that does not heal
- Persistent itching, burning, or pain on the penis
- Redness, swelling, or thickening of the skin
- Foul-smelling discharge under the foreskin
- A growth or wart-like lesion
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin (advanced cases)
Risk Factors
- Poor genital hygiene
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Smoking
- Phimosis (tight foreskin)
- Age (more common after 50)
- Weak immune system
Diagnosis
- Physical examination
- Biopsy of the lesion
- Ultrasound or MRI (in some cases)
- Lymph node evaluation
Treatment Options
- Surgery (local excision, laser surgery, partial or total penectomy depending on stage)
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy (topical or systemic)
- Targeted therapy (for specific cases)
