Penile cancer

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Penile cancer
Penile cancer
Synonyms Cancer of the penis
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Lump on the penis, ulceration, bleeding, discharge
Complications Metastasis, erectile dysfunction, urinary obstruction
Onset Most common in men over 50
Duration Long-term
Types N/A
Causes HPV, smoking, phimosis, poor hygiene
Risks HPV infection, smoking, uncircumcised
Diagnosis Biopsy, imaging studies
Differential diagnosis STI, dermatitis, psoriasis
Prevention HPV vaccine, circumcision, safe sex
Treatment Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy
Medication N/A
Prognosis Depends on stage at diagnosis
Frequency Rare, <1% of male cancers
Deaths Varies by region


Penile cancer is a rare type of cancer that forms in the penis, an external male reproductive organ. Most cases of penile cancer are classified as squamous cell carcinomas, which begin in the flat cells lining the penis.

Types[edit]

Penile cancer primarily includes:

  • Squamous cell carcinoma: The most common type, originating in the flat cells of the penis.
  • Melanoma: A less common type, affecting the pigment cells in the skin of the penis.
  • Other rarer types include adenocarcinoma, sarcoma, and basal cell carcinoma.

Causes and Risk Factors[edit]

While the exact cause of penile cancer is unknown, several risk factors have been identified, including:

  • HPV infection
  • Smegma buildup due to poor hygiene
  • Phimosis
  • Smoking
  • Age (most common in men over 50)

Symptoms[edit]

Common symptoms of penile cancer include:

  • A growth or sore on the penis, often painless
  • Thickening of the skin of the penis
  • Discoloration or change in the skin of the penis

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of penile cancer typically involves:

  • Physical examination
  • Biopsy
  • Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound

Treatment[edit]

Treatment options vary based on the stage and type of cancer and may include:

  • Surgery
  • Radiation therapy
  • Chemotherapy

Prevention[edit]

Preventive measures include practicing good hygiene, HPV vaccination, and avoiding tobacco use.

External Links[edit]

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