Penis Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment Options
By Dr. Anup Ramani
Penis cancer is a rare type of cancer that primarily affects the skin or tissues of the penis. While it accounts for only a small percentage of cancers in men, it is a serious condition that requires proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Understanding the symptoms, diagnostic methods and treatment options can empower patients and their families to navigate this challenging journey with better confidence. Below, we will explore everything you need to know about penis cancer, from recognizing early warning signs to exploring advanced treatment options.
Symptoms of Penis Cancer
The symptoms of penis cancer can vary depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Early detection plays a critical role in improving outcomes, so it is important to be vigilant about any unusual changes. Common symptoms include:
- Unusual growth or sore on the penis: A persistent lump, bump or sore that doesn’t heal within a few weeks is often an early sign of penis cancer.
- Changes in skin appearance: Skin discoloration, thickened patches or visible growths on the penile surface may indicate cancer. These changes may appear red, white or as dark spots.
- Pain or tenderness: Painful lesions or tenderness in the affected area can occur as the cancer progresses.
- Swelling or discharge: Swelling of the penis, especially near the glans or an unpleasant-smelling discharge from under the foreskin may signal cancer.
- Bleeding: Some men may experience bleeding from sores or lesions on the penis, especially in advanced stages.
- Unusual lumps in the groin: Swollen lymph nodes in the groin region could indicate that the cancer has spread.
Recognizing these symptoms early and seeking medical attention promptly is critical for diagnosing and treating penis cancer before it progresses.
Diagnosis of Penis Cancer
Diagnosing penis cancer involves a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the extent and nature of the disease. Several methods are used to accurately diagnose the condition, including:
- Physical Examination: The doctor will inspect the penis for visible changes such as lumps, sores or discoloration. Any swelling in the groin lymph nodes may also be assessed.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is often the most definitive way to diagnose penis cancer. In this procedure, a small tissue sample is taken from the affected area and analyzed under a microscope to confirm the presence of cancerous cells.
- Imaging Tests: Imaging techniques like ultrasound, CT scans or MRI are used to determine whether the cancer has spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes or distant parts of the body.
- Lymph Node Evaluation: If the cancer is suspected to have spread, the lymph nodes in the groin may be biopsied to check for cancerous involvement.
- HPV Testing: Certain cases of penis cancer may be linked to the human papillomavirus. Testing for HPV can provide additional insights into the underlying cause.
Early and accurate diagnosis allows healthcare providers to determine the stage of cancer and recommend the most suitable treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Penis Cancer
The treatment of penis cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of cancer, the location of the tumor and the patient’s overall health. Below, we outline the most common treatment approaches:
1. Surgery
Surgery is one of the primary treatment methods for penis cancer and may involve the removal of the tumor or part of the penis. Several surgical options are available:
- Partial Penectomy: This procedure involves removing the cancerous portion of the penis while preserving as much of the organ as possible. Preservation of sexual function and urinary function depends on careful surgical dissection and reconstruction.
- Total Penectomy: In cases where the cancer is extensive, the entire penis may need to be removed. The urethra is redirected to allow urination through a new opening created in the perineum.
- Excisional Surgery: For small or localized tumors, surgeons may remove the cancerous growth along with some surrounding healthy tissue. This is often used in early-stage cancers.
Lymph Node Dissection: If the cancer has spread to nearb
2. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. It is often used in conjunction with surgery or as a standalone treatment in cases where surgery is not an option.
- External Beam Radiation: This method involves directing radiation at the tumor from an external source. It is non-invasive and often used for smaller tumors.
- Brachytherapy: In this technique, radioactive material is placed directly into or near the tumor to target cancer cells with precision.
Radiation therapy can help shrink tumors before surgery or destroy any remaining cancer cells afterward.
3. Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. It can be administered orally, intravenously or topically, depending on the cancer’s stage and location.
- Topical Chemotherapy: For very early-stage cancers, a chemotherapy cream containing fluorouracil or imiquimod may be applied directly to the tumor.
- Systemic Chemotherapy: This is used in advanced cases where cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Common drugs include cisplatin, fluorouracil and paclitaxel.
- Combination Therapy: Sometimes, chemotherapy is combined with radiation to enhance its effectiveness.
4. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapies are a newer approach that uses drugs to specifically target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. These therapies work by interfering with specific proteins or pathways that cancer cells need to grow. They are particularly useful in advanced or recurrent cases of penis cancer.
5. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy helps boost the body’s immune system to fight cancer more effectively. It may be used in some cases where other treatments are not suitable or have failed. Drugs like immune checkpoint inhibitors are being explored for their potential in treating penis cancer.
Dealing with Penis Cancer Treatment
Overcoming withpenis cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. It’s important for patients and their families to take steps to manage the impact of the disease and its treatment.
- Seek emotional support: Many men find it helpful to join support groups or speak with counsellors specializing in cancer care.
- Discuss sexual health concerns: Treatment for penis cancer can affect sexual function. Open communication with your doctor about concerns and available options is essential.
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, staying physically active and quitting smoking can support recovery and overall well-being.
- Follow up regularly: Routine check-ups and imaging tests are critical to monitor for any recurrence or new symptoms.
Preventing Penis Cancer
Although penis cancer is rare, certain preventive measures can reduce the risk:
- Practice good hygiene: Regular cleaning of the genital area can prevent infections and reduce the risk of cancer.
- Get vaccinated for HPV: The human papillomavirus is a known risk factor for penis cancer. Vaccination can lower the risk of HPV infection.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking increases the likelihood of developing cancer, including penis cancer. Quitting can significantly lower your risk.
- Monitor for early signs: Regular self-examinations and reporting any unusual changes to a doctor can lead to early diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion
Penis cancer is a rare but serious condition that requires prompt attention. Understanding the symptoms, undergoing early and accurate diagnosis and exploring appropriate treatment options can improve outcomes significantly. Whether it involves surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy, each treatment plan is tailored to the patient’s unique situation. Early detection, combined with lifestyle changes and emotional support, can help patients navigate this journey with hope and confidence.
FAQs Penis Cancer
1. What are the early signs of penis cancer?
The early signs include lumps, sores or changes in skin color on the penis, as well as swelling or discharge under the foreskin.
2. Is surgery always required for penis cancer?
Not always. The treatment plan depends on the stage of the cancer. Early-stage cancer may be treated with topical therapy or radiation, while advanced cases may require surgery.
3. Can penis cancer be prevented?
Yes. Maintaining good hygiene, quitting smoking and getting vaccinated against HPV are effective preventive measures.
4. How does penis cancer affect sexual function?
Depending on the treatment, sexual function may be affected. Partial surgeries often aim to preserve sexual and urinary function, while total removal may require adjustments.
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Uro-Oncologist in India,
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1407, One Lodha Place Next to World Towers Senapati Bapat Marg, Worli, Mumbai. 400013.
Uro-Oncologist in India,
Best Robotic Surgeon for Uro Oncology Surgery
1407, One Lodha Place Next to World Towers Senapati Bapat Marg, Worli, Mumbai. 400013.
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PARTIAL PENECTOMY
- Partial penectomy is done in cases where glans and distal penis is involved with carcinoma.
- Partial penectomy is a type of organ-preserving surgery. Preservation of sexual and micturational function depends on the surgical dissection and reconstruction of residual urethra.
Kidney Stone Removal
- Patients who develop stones in the kidney or ureter, often experience severe pain.
- This condition usually needs a procedure to remove the kidney stones.
- This procedure is called ureteroscopy and is performed very commonly.
- It does not require any cuts and hence it is painless.
- The procedure is performed with an endoscope inserted through the penis under spinal anesthesia.
- The scope is inserted through the penis into the kidney and stones are dissolved with a laser.
- The procedure takes about 40-50 minutes.
- A catheter (urine pipe) is kept after the procedure to drain the bladder. A stent is kept in the kidney at the same time.
- Patient is mobile and walking in the room the same evening.
- Hospital stay is one night and patient is discharged the next day after removal of the catheter.
- Patient has to come back after six weeks to remove the stent in the kidney.
- Patients can resume office a week after surgery and heavy activities like running, weight lifting, a month after the procedure.
- We offer fixed packages for this procedure which can be obtained by calling our helpline +91 9967666060.
- Men with an enlarged prostate, which is a normal ageing changes, often experiencing difficulty passing urine. This condition usually needs a procedure to trim the prostate and relieve the blockage.
- This procedure is called TURP and is performed very commonly.
- It does not require any cuts and hence it is painless.
- The procedure is performed with an endoscope inserted through the penis under spinal anaesthesia.
- The overgrown prostate is dissolved with a laser bloodlessly.
- The procedure takes about 40 minutes.
- A catheter (urine pipe) is kept after the procedure to drain the bladder.
- Patient is mobile and walking in the room the same evening.
- Hospital stay is two nights and patient is discharged with the catheter, which is removed after 4 days.
- Patients can resume office a week after surgery and heavy activities like running, weight lifting, a month after the procedure.
- We offer fixed packages for this procedure which can be obtained by calling our helpline +91 9967666060.
ROBOTIC ADRENALECTOMY FOR ADRENAL GLAND TUMOUR
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Robotic adrenalectomy is a sophisticated, complex surgery and it is very important that an experienced surgeon performs this surgery to avoid major complications.
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Once the anesthesia is done, and patient positioned, three micro cuts (3mm each) are made in the patient’s abdomen.
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The arms of the Da Vinci robot are connected to the cuts via ports (tubes).
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Dr. Ramani then sits in the controlling console to perform the surgery.
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On an average, a robotic adrenalectomy takes one hour.
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The surgery is almost completely bloodless and there has never been any need to transfuse blood after surgery.
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A urine catheter and bag to drain the bladder is inserted during surgery.
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A tiny drain pipe may be inserted in the surgical side of the abdomen, connected to a bag.
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Patient is kept nil-by-mouth the day of the surgery, with IV fluids. Sips of water are started the next day and solid food by day three.
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The drain pipe, if kept, is removed in the room on day 2 after surgery.
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The catheter is removed on day two after surgery.
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Total hospital stay for robotic adrenalectomy is 4 nights (including night before surgery).
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Post discharge, a doctor from the surgical team visits the patient at home/ hotel room once every day.
RETURN TO ACTIVITY
On the day of discharge, patient is totally self-sufficient. They are able to walk freely without any pain, dress themselves, shower, toilet and they do not need to hire any nurse or help at home. Almost all patients are back to work within 2 weeks of surgery.
Heavy activities like running, weight lifting can be resumed after a month
FOLLOW UP AFTER SURGERY
Follow up after an adrenalectomy is in the form of CT scans, once a year for 5 years.
Local patients usually meet Dr. Ramani after two weeks to discuss report.Outstation patients are counselled on a phone consultation.
ROBOTIC SURGERY FOR BLADDER CANCER
- Dr. Ramani is one of the very few surgeons in India who has the expertise to perform a robotic surgery for bladder cancer, which includes removing the urinary bladder and reconstructing a new bladder robotically.
- Robotic radical cystectomy is an extremely sophisticated, complex surgery and it is very important that an experienced surgeon performs this surgery to avoid major complications.
- Once the anaesthesia is done, and patient positioned, six micro cuts (3mm each) are made in the patient’s abdomen.
- The arms of the Da Vinci robot are connected to the cuts via ports (tubes).
- Dr. Ramani then sits in the controlling console to perform the surgery.
- On an average, a robotic radical cystectomy with an ileal conduit takes 3-4 hours.
- The surgery is almost completely bloodless and there has never been any need to transfuse blood after surgery.
- A urine catheter and bag to drain the new bladder is inserted during surgery.
- Two tiny drain pipe in inserted in the surgical side of the abdomen, connected to a bag.
- Patient is kept nil-by-mouth for 4 days after surgery with IV supplementation of patient’s daily requirements of calories, fats, carbohydrates, proteins and electrolytes.
- The drain pipes are removed in the room on day 3-5 after surgery.
- Total hospital stay for radical cystectomy is 8 nights (including night before surgery).
- Post discharge, a doctor from the surgical team visits the patient at home/ hotel room once every day.
RETURN TO ACTIVITY
- On the day of discharge, patient is totally self-sufficient. They are able to walk freely without any pain, dress themselves, shower, toilet and they do not need to hire any nurse or help at home.
- Almost all patients are back to work within 6 weeks of surgery. Heavy activities like running, weight lifting can be resumed after two months.
FOLLOW UP AFTER SURGERY
Follow up after a radical a cystectomy is in the form of CT scans, once a year for 5 years.
Histopathology report: Local patients usually meet Dr. Ramani after two weeks to discuss report.
Outstation patients are counselled on a phone consult. Depending on the report, patient may or may not need chemotherapy after surgery.
If chemo is needed, patients may choose to get it done with a medical oncologist of their choice or avail the services of one of the four medical oncologists on our team.
ROBOTIC RADICAL/PARTIAL NEPHRECTOMY FOR KIDNEY CANCER
- Robotic partial nephrectomy is a sophisticated, complex surgery and it is very important that an experienced surgeon performs this surgery to avoid major complications. Robotic radical (total) nephrectomy is
- relatively easier but still requires significant experience to consistently deliver results.
- Once the anaesthesia is done, and patient positioned, five micro cuts (3mm each) are made in the patient’s abdomen.
- The arms of the Da Vinci robot are connected to the cuts via ports (tubes).
- Dr. Ramani then sits in the controlling console to perform the surgery.
- On an average, a robotic radical nephrectomy takes one hour and a robotic partial nephrectomy takes about an hour and half.
- The surgery is almost completely bloodless and there has never been any need to transfuse blood after surgery.
- A urine catheter and bag to drain the bladder is inserted during surgery.
- A tiny drain pipe in inserted in the surgical side of the abdomen, connected to a bag.
- Patient is kept nil-by-mouth the day of the surgery, with IV fluids. Sips of water are started the next day and solid food by day three.
- The drain pipe is removed in the room on day 3 after surgery. The catheter is removed on day two after surgery.
- Total hospital stay for radical/partial nephrectomy is 4 nights (including night before surgery).
- Post discharge, a doctor from the surgical team visits the patient at home/ hotel room once every day.
RETURN TO ACTIVITY
- On the day of discharge, patient is totally self- sufficient.
- They are able to walk freely without any pain, dress themselves, shower, toilet and they do not need to hire any nurse or help at home.
- Almost all patients are back to work within 2-3 weeks of surgery.
- Heavy activities like running, weight lifting can be resumed after a month.
FOLLOW UP AFTER SURGERY
- Follow up after a radical/partial Nephrectomy is in the form of CT scans, once a year for 5 years.
- Local patients usually meet Dr. Ramani after two weeks to discuss report.
- Outstation patients are counselled on a phone consultation.