Penile Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

What is penile cancer?

Penile cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the male genital area. This condition is rare but can be serious if not detected and treated in time. It usually begins on the skin and can spread to other parts of the body if not properly treated.

Symptoms

Symptoms of penile cancer may vary, but it is important to pay attention to early signs and seek medical advice promptly. The main symptoms include:

sores or wounds: small lesions that do not heal within two weeks
skin changes: spots or discolored areas on the skin in the region
swelling: in the area or under the skin
discharge: abnormal discharge with an unpleasant odor
pain: recurring pain or discomfort in the area

Other symptoms may include bleeding, pain when urinating, and lumps in the groin area.

The symptoms mentioned are not exclusively linked to the disease, so it is necessary to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis.

Causes

Penile cancer can be caused by several factors, some of which are preventable. The main causes and risk factors include:

poor hygiene: not properly cleaning the genital area can increase the risk of infections that may lead to cancer
HPV infection: human papillomavirus (HPV) is a risk factor for developing the disease
smoking: tobacco use increases the risk of various types of cancer, including penile cancer
family history: having family members with cancer may increase the risk
phimosis: a condition where the foreskin cannot be fully retracted, which can facilitate infections in the organ

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of penile cancer involves a series of exams and evaluations performed by healthcare professionals to confirm the presence of the disease. Common steps in the diagnostic process include:

clinical exam: visual inspection and palpation of the genital area and groin to identify sores or lumps
biopsy: collection of a tissue sample for detailed (microscopic) analysis to identify possible cancer cells
imaging tests: ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI are used to assess the extent of the cancer and check for spread (metastasis)
blood tests: to assess overall health and organ function, and to detect possible cancer markers

Performing a biopsy is essential to confirm the diagnosis of penile cancer, as it allows for detailed analysis of the affected cells.

Treatment

Treatment for penile cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the location of the tumor, and the person’s overall health. The main treatment options include:

surgery: removal of the tumor and possibly part of the affected tissue. In severe cases, a larger portion may need to be removed
radiation therapy: use of radiation to destroy cancer cells, which can be used alone or in combination with other treatments
chemotherapy: use of drugs to eliminate or inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Treatment may be oral (pills) or intravenous, depending on the case
targeted therapy: drugs that act specifically on cancer cells, helping to minimize damage to normal cells

Treatment is personalized and may involve a combination of these approaches, depending on the individual needs of the patient and the stage of the disease.

Einstein Oncology and Hematology offers comprehensive care from diagnosis to treatment. Learn more.

Prevention

Penile cancer prevention can be achieved through the adoption of some simple and effective measures:

avoid tobacco use: refrain from all types of tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco
proper hygiene: regularly wash the genital area with water and soap
safe sexual practices: using condoms can reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections, such as HPV
HPV vaccination: vaccination can prevent HPV infections, which are associated with an increased risk of penile cancer
regular check-ups: routine medical check-ups with healthcare professionals to detect any suspicious changes in the area

Adopting a healthy lifestyle and following these practices can significantly reduce the risk of developing penile cancer.