Penile cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the penis. It occurs when abnormal cells grow and divide uncontrollably in the tissues of the penis.

The disease often starts in the skin of the penis and can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Penile cancer can be effectively treated if detected early.

What are the types of penile cancer?

There are several types of penile cancer, including:.

Squamous cell carcinoma – This is the most common type of penile cancer. It starts in the squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells that make up the skin of the penis.
Adenocarcinoma – This type of cancer starts in the sweat glands or sebaceous glands of the penis.
Sarcoma – This is a rare type of cancer that starts in the connective tissues of the penis.
Basal cell carcinoma – This is a rare type of cancer that starts in the basal cells, which are located at the bottom of the epidermis.

What are the symptoms of penile cancer?

Penile cancer may not have symptoms in its early stages. However, as the cancer grows, it may cause:.

A lump or sore on the penis that does not heal
Bleeding or discharge from the penis
A change in the color or thickness of the skin of the penis
Persistent itching, pain, or burning in the penis
Swelling in the penis or nearby lymph nodes

What are the risk factors for penile cancer?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing penile cancer, including:.

Age – the risk of penile cancer increases with age.
Smoking – smoking tobacco can increase the risk of penile cancer.
Poor hygiene – not having good hygiene practices, like washing the penis regularly, can increase the risk of penile cancer.
Phimosis – tight foreskin can increase the risk of penile cancer.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) – having the HPV virus can increase the risk of penile cancer.

How is penile cancer diagnosed?

If penile cancer is suspected, a doctor will perform a physical exam to check for any abnormalities in the penis. The doctor may also order tests, including:.

Biopsy – a small piece of tissue from the penis is removed and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
Imaging tests – such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans, which can help determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.

How is penile cancer treated?

The treatment for penile cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. The treatment options include:.

Surgery – the cancerous tissue is removed from the penis.
Radiation therapy – high-energy beams are used to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy – drugs are used to kill cancer cells.

What is the prognosis for penile cancer?

The prognosis for penile cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. When penile cancer is detected early, the prognosis is generally good.

However, if left untreated, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body and become more difficult to treat.