Penile Cancer at a Glance
Visible early
It usually begins as a patch, ulcer or growth that does not heal.
Linked to HPV
Human papillomavirus infection and phimosis are important risk factors.
Organ-sparing options
Early tumours can often be removed while preserving the penis.
Lymph nodes are key
Assessing the groin lymph nodes is central to cure.
Warning Signs and Risk Factors
- A patch, ulcer, wart-like growth or thickening on the glans or foreskin
- Bleeding or a foul-smelling discharge from under the foreskin
- A foreskin that has become tight and cannot be retracted
- Swelling or lumps in the groin
Risk is higher with HPV infection, phimosis, poor genital hygiene, smoking and tobacco use, and long-standing inflammation of the glans. Circumcision in childhood lowers the risk. Any lesion that has not healed within a few weeks deserves an examination and biopsy.
Diagnosis and Staging
A biopsy confirms the diagnosis, grade and depth of the tumour. The groins are examined carefully, and ultrasound, CT or MRI is used to assess the lymph nodes. MRI of the penis helps judge how deeply the tumour has invaded when organ-sparing surgery is being planned.
Treating the Primary Tumour
The aim is complete removal of the cancer with the least possible effect on appearance, urination and sexual function.
Pre-cancerous change (PeIN)
Topical creams, laser treatment or glans resurfacing.
Small superficial tumours
Wide local excision or circumcision, sometimes with laser.
Tumours of the glans
Glansectomy, with reconstruction to preserve length and function.
Larger or deeper tumours
Partial or, when necessary, total penectomy with reconstruction of the urinary opening.
Managing the Groin Lymph Nodes
Penile Cancer spreads first to the lymph nodes in the groin, so their management largely determines the chance of cure. When nodes may be involved, an inguinal lymph node dissection is performed.
VEIL (video-endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy) removes the same nodes through small incisions. Compared with open surgery it substantially reduces wound breakdown and swelling, allowing a smoother recovery. Pelvic lymph nodes can be removed robotically when needed. Advanced disease is treated with chemotherapy and radiation in addition to surgery.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery after local excision is quick, usually within a couple of weeks. Larger operations need a longer recovery, with support for urinary and sexual function. Follow-up involves regular examination of the penis and both groins, most frequently in the first two years, with imaging when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is every sore on the penis cancer?
No. Infections, skin conditions and injuries are far more common. But a lesion that has not healed within a few weeks should be examined and, if needed, biopsied.
Can the penis be preserved?
In many early cancers, yes. Excision, laser treatment and glansectomy can remove the cancer while preserving the penis.
What is VEIL?
Video-endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy removes groin lymph nodes through small incisions, reducing wound complications compared with open surgery.
Will I be able to pass urine normally?
After organ-sparing surgery and partial penectomy, most men pass urine standing. Reconstruction is planned to preserve function.
Is Penile Cancer curable?
Yes, particularly when diagnosed early and when the lymph nodes are managed appropriately.
Is the consultation confidential?
Completely. Consultations are private, and reports or photographs can be shared securely before a teleconsultation.