What is Penile Cancer?
Penile cancer is a rare cancer that affects the skin of the penis.
It’s rare. But it can be treated, especially if it’s found early on.
Causes
Another possible cause may be the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is a virus passed through sex. Antibodies to HPV-16 have been found in many patients with penile cancer.
Men who keep clean with good genital hygiene and who are circumcised are much less likely to get penile cancer.
Signs and Symptoms of Penile Cancer
Changes in skin thickness or color
These signs don’t always mean penile cancer. You might have an infection or an allergic reaction. But it’s important to tell your doctor about any unusual symptoms on or near your penis right away.
Treatment for Penile Cancer
Penile cancer is more treatable if it’s found early.
The treatment you need will depend on:
- the size and type of penile cancer you have
- where it is
- if it has spread
- your age and general health
Treatment for early cancer often involves non-surgical treatments, for example, a chemotherapy cream such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), and laser therapy.
If the cancer is found later, treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
