PROFESSOR SUKS MINHAS | MR TET YAP | 0207 034 5032
PENILE CANCER
Penile cancer is a rare form of cancer that mostly affects men over the age of 50. The very name penile cancer can set off alarm bells in the mind of men due to it occurring in such a sensitive area. It is reported just 500 new cases of penile cancer are diagnosed in the United Kingdom each year. Despite being rare, it can be a devastating cancer.
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Penile cancer is caused by cells, either on the inside or outside of the penis, growing out of control. As the number of cells grows, they form into a tumor.
There are a few types of penile cancer, but the most common is squamous cell cancer, which starts on the skin of the penis.
Unfortunately, are no standard tests to look for penile cancer. If you find any new marks, warts, blisters, sores or white patches then it it recommended that you make an appointment with us as soon as possible.
DIAGNOSIS OF PENILE CANCER
General practitioners will refer men suspecting they have penile cancer to a urologist for confirmation. The urologist will first take a blood test and confirm the patient’s medical history.
The specialist will then take a biopsy of the penis to test for penile cancer. A small piece of tissue will be removed to test under a microscope. Three different biopsies can be carried out and include incisional biopsy, excisional biopsy, and lymph node biopsy if the lymph nodes are also thought to be involved.
An MRI scan and CT scan will also be used to ensure the cancer has not spread to further parts of the body. Patient survival rates depend on how early the cancer is discovered.
SYMPTOMS OF PENILE CANCER
Men may find the skin around the penis becoming discoloured. The skin can also become thick and bumps can develop in the area. Along with bumps or lumps, ulcers can form on the skin.
Ulcers can form on the shaft, foreskin, and head of the penis. Men may also find a foul-smelling discharge emanating from their penis. Discharge and/or blood can emerge from the ulcers.
TREATMENT FOR PENILE CANCER
Patients experiencing penile cancer have four methods of treatment. These treatment methods include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and biologic therapy. Treatment can depend on the size of the cancer cells and growth.
Penile cancer surgery may involve removing the cancerous cells and some of the tissue near the area. Men can expect to have reconstructive surgery to repair the areas of the penis that are affected by the cancer.
Some patients may undergo partial amputation of the penis. The appendage can be reconstructed using muscle and tissue from other areas of the body. Modern medicine has made it possible to reconstruct the penis and give cancer suffers the chance to resume a normal life.