From Symptoms to Survival: Your Penile Cancer Guide
Penile cancer is a rare but serious condition that begins in or on the penis, most commonly as squamous cell carcinoma. It usually affects men over the age of 50, but can occur earlier, especially in those with risk factors like poor hygiene or HPV infection. Though uncommon, penile cancer can be life-threatening if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The good news? When caught early, it’s highly treatable.
Early Signs & Symptoms
Penile cancer often starts with subtle signs. Don’t ignore these common symptoms:
- A sore, lump, or ulcer that doesn’t heal.
- Reddish or velvety rash under the foreskin or on the glans.
- Foul-smelling discharge or bleeding from the penile.
- Swelling at the tip or in the groin area.
- Pain, itching, or irritation.
If any of these symptoms last more than two weeks, consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis can make all the difference.
What Puts You at Risk?
Understanding the causes can help you prevent penile cancer. Key risk factors include:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
- Poor genital hygiene, especially in uncircumcised men.
- Smoking damages healthy cells and weakens the immune system.
- Chronic inflammation or skin conditions like phimosis.
- A weakened immune system due to illness or medication.
- Age – Most cases occur in men over 50.
Preventive tips: Practice proper hygiene, quit smoking, and get vaccinated against HPV.
How Is Penile Cancer Diagnosed?
Getting a proper diagnosis involves several steps:
- Physical Examination – Doctors look for visible lesions, sores, or abnormal tissue.
- Biopsy – A small tissue sample is taken and tested to confirm cancer.
- Imaging Tests – MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound may be used to determine the extent of the disease.
- Lymph Node Evaluation – If there’s swelling in the groin, further testing may be done to check for spread.
- Early diagnosis improves the chance of organ preservation and successful treatment.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the stage and severity of the cancer:
- Surgery – May involve local excision, laser surgery, circumcision, partial or total penectomy, or lymph node dissection
- Radiation Therapy – Used alone or in combination with surgery
- Chemotherapy – Topical or systemic, depending on the stage
- Robotic or Minimally Invasive Surgery – Offers better precision, faster recovery, and fewer complications
- Patients with early-stage cancer often benefit from organ-sparing procedures. Advanced cancer may require a combination of therapies.
Recovery, Support & Life After Treatment
Recovery from penile cancer goes beyond physical healing. Emotional well-being, self-image, and intimacy are important aspects of survivorship. Counseling, sexual health support, and follow-up care can help men regain confidence and quality of life. If you're based in Delhi NCR, Noida, Ghaziabad, or nearby regions, you're close to some of the country’s leading cancer experts. For precision care and minimally invasive treatment options, consult a Robotic Onco Surgeon in Delhi. Patients often choose the Best Onco surgeon in Delhi or the Best Robotic Surgeon in Delhi for expert guidance, advanced surgical techniques, and compassionate care. Robotic-assisted procedures offer better outcomes with reduced pain, faster recovery, and improved functionality.
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