penile cancer

What is Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer, also known as cancer of the penis, is a rare type of cancer that occurs on the skin of the penis or within the penis itself [1]. It starts when abnormal cells in the penis begin to divide and grow in an uncontrolled way [7].

Types of Penile Cancer

The most common type of penile cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which begins in flat cells called squamous cells [3]. Basal cell carcinoma is another type of skin cancer that can develop on the penis, although it is relatively rare [2].

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of penile cancer remains unknown, there are several risk factors that may contribute to its development. These include poor genital hygiene, being uncircumcised, older age, and certain genetic conditions [6]. However, it's essential to note that most cases of penile cancer occur in men who have no known risk factors.

Symptoms

The first sign of penile cancer is often a change in the skin of the penis, such as a lump or discoloration [8]. Other symptoms may include bleeding from the penis, pain while urinating, or difficulty achieving an erection. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

References

[1] Context result 4: "Penile cancer, or cancer of the penis, is when cells grow out of control on or in a man's penis."

[2] Context result 2: "Basal cell carcinoma (also known as basal cell cancer) is another type of skin cancer that can develop on the penis."

[3] Context result 3: "A rare cancer that forms in the penis (an external male reproductive organ). Most penile cancers are squamous cell carcinomas (cancer that begins in flat cells..."

[6] Context result 6: "The exact cause of penile cancer remains unknown. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma."

[7] Context result 7: "Penile cancer is when abnormal cells in the penis start to divide and grow in an uncontrolled way."

[8] Context result 8: "In most cases, the first sign of penile cancer is a change in the skin of the penis."

Common Signs and Symptoms of Penile Cancer

Penile cancer, also known as penis cancer, can manifest in various ways, making it essential to be aware of the possible symptoms. Here are some common signs and symptoms:

• Changes in skin thickness or color: The skin on the penis may become thicker, discolored, or develop a reddish, velvety appearance [1].
• A growth, lump, or sore that doesn't heal: A persistent growth, lump, or sore on the penis that doesn't heal within 4 weeks is a significant symptom [4].
• Rash or small crusty bumps: A rash or small crusty bumps on the penis can be an indication of penile cancer [5].
• Bleeding or foul-smelling discharge: Bleeding or a foul-smelling discharge from the penis or under the foreskin is another possible symptom [4, 8].
• Difficulty pulling back the foreskin: In some cases, men may experience difficulty pulling back their foreskin due to penile cancer [8].

It's essential to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

References:

[1] Skin changes · An area of skin becoming thicker · Changes in the skin color · A lump · An ulcer (sore) that might bleed · A reddish, velvety ...

[4] Main symptoms of penile cancer · a growth, lump or sore that does not heal within 4 weeks · a rash · bleeding from your penis or under your foreskin · a smelly ...

[5] Mar 24, 2024 — Signs and Symptoms of Penile Cancer · Changes in skin thickness or color · A rash or small crusty bumps on your penis; it can look like an ...

[8] Symptoms of penile cancer · a growth or sore on your penis · bleeding or a foul smelling discharge · a rash on your penis · difficulty pulling back your foreskin · a ...

Diagnostic Tests for Penile Cancer

Penile cancer diagnosis involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, and biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

• Physical Examination: A doctor will inspect the penis for any unusual lumps or growths during a physical exam. This is usually the first step in diagnosing penile cancer.
• Imaging Tests:
  • CT Scan (CAT scan): Shows the size of the tumor and if it has spread [1].
  • MRI: Takes detailed pictures inside your body to evaluate cancer spread and stage the cancer [6].
  • Penile ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the penis and surrounding tissues [3].
• Biopsy: A small piece of tissue is taken from the affected area and sent to a lab for examination under a microscope. This is the main test to diagnose penile cancer [2].

Additional tests may include:

• Blood tests
• Scans (e.g., PET-CT scan)
• Ultrasound scan and fine needle aspiration

Accurate diagnosis is essential to choosing the best treatment for your type and stage of penile cancer [10]. If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns, it's crucial to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and care.

References: [1] - Context result 3 [2] - Context result 1 [3] - Context result 4 [6] - Context result 6 [10] - Context result 10

Treatment Options for Penile Cancer

Penile cancer treatment varies by stage, but drug therapy plays a significant role in managing this condition. Here are some key points about the drug treatment of penile cancer:

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells. This treatment option is often used in combination with other therapies such as surgery and radiation therapy [9].
• Topical Imiquimod: Immunotherapy drugs like imiquimod are being explored for the treatment of penile cancer. Topical imiquimod has been shown to be effective in treating certain types of skin cancers, and researchers are investigating its potential use in penile cancer [4].
• 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): This cream is often used to treat penile cancer, particularly in the early stages. It's applied at home twice a day for several weeks [6].
• Cisplatin: This chemotherapy medication is commonly used to treat penile cancer, especially when combined with other treatments like radiation therapy [7].

Immunotherapy

Recent studies have focused on the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors in treating penile cancer. These medications work by boosting the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells [8]. Researchers are assessing their efficacy in patients with locally advanced or metastatic penile cancer.

Other Treatment Options

In addition to drug therapy, other treatment options for penile cancer include surgery (such as penectomy) and radiation therapy. The most effective treatment plan will depend on the individual's stage of cancer and overall health [5].

References:

[4] May 30, 2024 — Immunotherapy drugs used to treat penile cancer include: topical imiquimod. [6] Jun 25, 2018 — The drug used most often to treat penile cancer this way is 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). [7] Jul 5, 2023 — It's typically treated with a combination of surgical interventions, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy medications such as cisplatin. [8] Aug 11, 2023 — Researchers assessed the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors by focusing on patients with locally advanced or metastatic penile cancer. [9] Jun 25, 2018 — Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells. You might have it as part of your treatment for penile cancer.

The differential diagnosis of penile cancer involves considering various conditions that can present similarly to penile malignancy. According to the search results, some of these conditions include:

• Penile carcinoma in situ: This condition can be difficult to distinguish from other lesions, such as psoriasis [3]. The differential diagnosis includes Zoon's balanitis, which is a benign inflammatory condition that can mimic penile cancer.
• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC): While SCC is the most common type of penile malignancy, its differential diagnosis includes premalignant and malignant lesions, infections, and inflammatory conditions [5]. Neoplastic lesions such as verrucous carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma should also be considered in the differential diagnosis.
• Pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia: This condition can present similarly to SCC and is often included in the differential diagnosis of penile malignancy [7].
• Bowen's disease/bowenoid papulosis/erythroplasia of Queyrat: These conditions are precancerous lesions that can be confused with penile cancer, particularly when they present as erythematous (red) lesions on the penis [8].
• Verrucous carcinoma (Buschke-Löwenstein Tumor): This is a rare type of penile cancer that can be difficult to distinguish from other conditions, including SCC and pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia.
• Penile cancer: While this may seem obvious, it's essential to consider the possibility of penile cancer in the differential diagnosis, particularly when evaluating patients with suspicious lesions on their penis.

It's worth noting that a definitive diagnosis of penile cancer typically requires histopathological examination and consultation with a specialist.