Penile Cancer

Key Symptoms

Common signs include painless lumps, ulcers, or red patches on the glans or foreskin, along with bleeding or foul discharge. Advanced cases may cause swelling or lymph node enlargement. Patients often delay care due to embarrassment.?

Causes and Risk Factors

Human papillomavirus (HPV), especially type 16, drives about 40-50% of cases, progressing from precursor lesions like penile intraepithelial neoplasia. Other risks encompass phimosis, smoking, chronic inflammation, and uncircumcised status. Incidence rises with age and poor hygiene.?

Diagnosis and Staging

Diagnosis involves biopsy confirming squamous cell carcinoma, the dominant type (95%). Staging uses TNM system: Stage 0 (intraepithelial), up to Stage IV (metastatic). Imaging assesses lymph node involvement.?

Treatment Options

Early stages favor circumcision or laser therapy; advanced requires partial/total penectomy and lymphadenectomy. Chemotherapy or radiation aids metastatic disease. Prognosis excels with prompt intervention.