Penile Cancer: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Introduction

Health is our most precious asset. However, many of us don't pay attention to it until we face a health concern. One of such concern that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late is penile cancer. Although it is relatively rare as compared to other forms of cancers, penile cancer represents a serious type of concern impacting men's health. This article provides a comprehensive overview of penile cancer, covering its types, symptoms, causes, treatment options, and management strategies. Our main aim is to empower you with the necessary knowledge required to make informed choices about your health.

Penile cancer is an uncommon form of cancer that typically affects older adults, though it can develop in individuals of any age. It involves the growth of malignant cells within the penis, causing alterations in its normal structure and function. While the term "cancer" can be alarming, gaining an understanding the nature of the disease, its symptoms, its causes, and available treatment options can help alleviate some of the associated anxiety. In this article, we delve into penile cancer types, how common it is and at what penile cancer age it usually occurs.

What is Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer is a condition characterised by the formation of malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the penis. The penis functions as a male reproductive organ, facilitating sexual intercourse and urination. It is mainly made up of two sections: the shaft (the longer part), and and the glans or head (the tip). In uncircumcised males, a layer of skin known as foreskin covers the head of the penis. While penile cancer can develop in any area of the penis, it frequently affects the glans or foreskin.

What are the Types of Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer is a rare condition, but it can appear in various forms, each with its own traits and treatment methods. Understanding these types is key for recognizing and detecting the disease early.

Below are the main types of penile cancer:

1. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This type accounts for approximately 95% of all penile cancer cases. It originates in the epithelium, which is the top layer of skin covering the penis.
2. Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): A slow-growing form of penile cancer, BCC begins in the lower layer of the epithelium and is less aggressive than SCC.
3. Melanoma: This aggressive form of penile cancer starts in melanocytes, which are the cells that produce skin color.
4. Sarcoma: Very rare, sarcoma occurs in the muscle or connective tissues around the penis.

How Common is Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer accounts for less than 1% of cancers among men in countries like the U.S., but in some areas of Africa, Asia, and South America, it is much more prevalent, accounting for more than 10% of cancers in males.

At What Age Does Penile Cancer Usually Occur?

The average age for a penile cancer diagnosis is 60, with most diagnoses occurring in individuals over 55. However, it can also affect men below 40 years old.

What are the Symptoms of Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer often manifests visible changes in the penis, highlighting the importance for men to be aware of these signs. Detecting changes early can improve outcomes, so acknowledging any of these unusual developments is important.

These changes may include:

• A painless lump or sore on the penis that can bleed
• Skin thickening or changes in skin color
• Foul-smelling discharge beneath the foreskin
• Small, crusty bumps on the penis
• Unusual growths that look blueish-brown

If you experience any symptoms of penile cancer, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider, as they could be early warning signs.

What Causes Penile Cancer?

The exact cause of penile cancer remains unknown, but it begins when a healthy cell transforms into a cancer cell and starts to multiply uncontrollably. Over time, these cancer cells can push out healthy cells and spread to other parts of the body. Penile cancer occurs when the normal cells in your skin transform into cancerous cells. As these cells multiply, they form a mass called tumor, which invade surrounding healthy tissue and spread. As researchers explore the causes of this change, they have identified several risk factors.

What are the Risk Factors for Penile Cancer?

The main risk factors for penile cancer include being older (around 80% of cases occur in individuals over 55 years), an uncircumcised status (which increases risks related to having a foreskin), phimosis (inability to retract the foreskin), HPV infection, HIV infection, tobacco use, PUVA treatment for psoriasis, lichen sclerosis (an inflammatory condition), and inadequate hygiene.

Is Penile Cancer Contagious?

Penile cancer is not contagious. However, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a significant risk factor for penile cancer, can be transmitted through sexual contact.

How is Penile Cancer Diagnosed?

To diagnose penile cancer, your healthcare provider will conduct a physical exam and history-taking by your healthcare provider. If they find any suspicious cells or tissues, they may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, PET scans, or chest X-rays may also be ordered to determine the extent of spread.

What are the Stages of Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer stages are classified using the TNM system, which consists of three components:

• T (Tumor): This indicates the size of the tumor and how deeply it has invaded the penis.
• N (Lymph Nodes): This shows whether the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• M (Metastasis): This indicates whether the cancer has spread to distant organs.

The numbers following TNM provide more specific details about the size, extent, and involvement of lymph nodes, helping to determine the overall stage of the cancer.

How is Penile Cancer Treated?

Treatment options depends on factors such as the tumor's size, the extent of cancer spread, and the chances of recurrence. For early-stage cancer, treatment approaches may include medicated creams, circumcision, laser ablation, cryotherapy, Mohs surgery, excision, and radiation therapy. For advanced stages, treatments may include penectomy (removal of part or all of the penis) or lymphadenectomy (removal of affected lymph nodes).

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Penile Cancer?

Preventive measures include infant circumcision, prompt treatment for phimosis, receiving the HPV vaccine (particularly for those aged 9 to 26), practicing safer sex, avoiding tobacco products, and a maintaining proper hygiene.

What Can I Expect If I Have Penile Cancer?

Your prognosis depends on the cancer's stage, the tumor's location and size, and whether it’s newly diagnosed or recurring. An early detection typically allows for easier treatment and a higher chance of cure. In contrast, later-stage diagnosis may indicate that the cancer has spread, making treatment more challenging. Regular check-ups can aid in early detection.

Is Penile Cancer Fatal?

Penile cancer can be fatal if it spreads beyond the penis. However, adopting preventive habits like practicing safer sex and avoiding tobacco can help reduce your risk.

How do I Take Care of Myself?

Maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is crucial for managing life after a penile cancer diagnosis. It's important to talk about how your treatment plan might affect your daily activities and to establish a support system that can assist you throughout this journey.

Consult your healthcare provider about how your cancer and treatment plan might affect your daily life. Many cancer treatments preserve penile tissue, so your penis is likely to heal to look much the same as it did before. You should still be able to urinate while standing, achieve erections, have sex, and experience orgasms.

Surgically removing part or all of your penis may change the way you urinate and your experience of sex. Penile cancer treatment can unfold in various ways. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare for different possible scenarios. It's important to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about any questions or concerns you may have.

Conclusion

Understanding the symptoms and causes of penile cancer, knowing its types, and treatment options empowers you to take control of your health. Regular checks and screenings play a vital role in early diagnosis and intervention, enhancing survival rates. Metropolis Healthcare offers a wide network of advanced diagnostic labs across India, ensuring accurate testing services from the comfort of your doorstep. An expert team of technicians collects samples from your home, ensuring convenience without compromising accuracy or safety. Stay informed and vigilant; taking care of your health is within reach with knowledge and professional medical care.

An expert team of technicians collect samples at home, ensuring convenience without compromising accuracy or safety. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and remember: taking care of your health is within reach with knowledge and professional medical care.