Penile Cancer

Diagnosing Penile Cancer

The first sign of penile cancer is usually a painless ulcer or growth on the penis, especially on the glans or foreskin. Other symptoms may include changes in color, skin thickening or accumulation of penile tissue. The cancer may appear as a reddish rash or as scaly bumps or flat growths.

Some of these symptoms may not be visible unless the foreskin is pulled back. Most penile cancers do not cause pain, but some can cause ulcerations and bleeding.

A number of benign conditions, including genital warts and infections, may give similar symptoms to penile cancer. For this reason, it is very important to get a correct diagnosis as early as possible.

Penile Cancer Treatment

Squamous cell penile tumors tend to grow slowly and can usually be cured when they are detected early. Early detection leads to treatment that is simpler, more effective, and less likely to cause significant side effect s or complications.

The three main methods for treating penile cancer are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery is the most common treatment for all stages of penile cancer.

Most early stage penile cancers can be completely cured by fairly minor surgery. Techniques such as microscopic surgery and laser surgery remove the cancer while saving as much normal tissue as possible. Depending on the type, size, and extent of the tumor, t reatment may involve simple excision of the tumor, circumcision, or more extensive surgery.

Radiation may be used as an alternative to surgery or as an additional therapy to reduce the risk of recurrence. Chemotherapy is used to treat more advanced disease.

The Department of Urology provides expert diagnosis and treatment of penile cancer. Department surgeons perform a range of surgical options, including surgery to remove cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes.

For patient referral or consultations, contact the Department of Urology at 412-692-4100.