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Penile (penis) Cancer

What is Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer is also known as cancer of the penis, it is a rare cancer around 700 people are diagnosed each year in the UK.

Most penile cancer is diagnosed over the age of 50. But it can also affect those who are younger.

Almost all cancers of the penis are squamous cell cancers. Squamous cells are found in the skin. They cover the surface of most parts of the body.

Rarely, other types of cancer can affect the penis. These include types of skin cancer such as basal cell carcinomas and malignant melanomas.

The exact reason why a cell becomes cancerous is unclear. It is thought that something damages or alters certain genes in the cell. This makes the cell abnormal and multiply 'out of control'. 

Symptoms of Penile Cancer

Early Signs of Penile Cancer

  • The first signs are often a lump or sore on the head of the penis or foreskin.
  • Most penile cancers don’t cause pain, so it’s important to look out for changes.

Symptoms to Watch For

  • Trouble pulling back the foreskin (phimosis)
  • A sore or lump that doesn’t heal within 4 weeks
  • Bleeding from the penis or under the foreskin
  • Smelly discharge from under the foreskin
  • Skin on the penis or foreskin changes colour
  • A rash that doesn’t go away with treatment

Other Possible Signs

  • Flat, bluish-brown patches
  • Red rash or small crusty bumps
  • These may only be visible when the foreskin is pulled back

Important to Know

  • If you have symptoms, your GP will check your health and may examine your penis and groin.
  • If they think cancer might be the cause, they’ll refer you to a urologist (a doctor who treats problems with the penis, testicles, and urinary system).
  • Like most cancers, penile cancer is easier to treat if found early.

Diagnosis and Test

What to do if you have symptoms:

  • See your GP. If your GP thinks that your symptoms could be caused by cancer, they usually refer you to a doctor called a urologist.

If cancer is suspected:

  • You’ll be referred to hospital to see a specialist doctor urologist or urology nurse
  • If it’s urgent, you’ll get an appointment quickly.

What happens at the hospital or clinic:

  • The urologist or specialist nurse will ask you about your symptoms and your general health. 
  • They will examine the penis and check the area at the top of the legs (groin) for any swelling.

Tests

The main test is a biopsy, this involves taking a sample of tissue (this may be done under local or general anaesthetic)

Additional information

If you have been diagnosed with penile cancer and have any questions or concerns about your illness don’t hesitate to speak to your Clinical Nurse Specialist.

You can also find further information, advice and helpful tips on the following links