What are Causes of penile cancer ? Symptoms, Treatment

Rarely, the skin or tissues of the penis develop cancer. This is known as penile cancer. The exact cause of penile cancer is not known, but certain factors such as human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, smoking, poor personal hygiene, and phimosis (a condition in which the foreskin cannot be retracted) may increase the risk. Symptoms of penile cancer may include a lump or sore on the penis, bleeding or discharge from the penis, or changes in the skin of the penis. Treatment for penile cancer depends on the stage and may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Early diagnosis and treatment of penile cancer can increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Penile Cancer Cause

The exact cause of penile cancer is not known, but there are several risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing this type of cancer. One of the most significant risk factors is infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted virus. Other risk factors for penile cancer may include smoking, poor personal hygiene, chronic inflammation of the penis, phimosis (a condition in which the foreskin cannot be retracted), a weakened immune system, and a family history of penile cancer. It’s important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean a person will develop penile cancer, but it may increase the likelihood.

Penile Cancer Symptoms

Penile cancer can cause various symptoms, and some men with early-stage penile cancer may not have any symptoms at all. However, as cancer progresses, common symptoms may include:

• A lump or growth on the penis, which may be painful or painless
• Changes to the penile skin’s tone or texture
• Bleeding or discharge from the penis
• Persistent rash or sores on the penis
• Foul-smelling discharge under the foreskin
• Swelling in the groin area
• Painful urination

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis if any of these symptoms occur. Early detection and treatment of penile cancer can improve the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

Penile cancer diagnosis

Early detection of penile cancer is crucial for effective treatment, and it usually involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and biopsies.

• Physical Exam: The doctor will perform a thorough physical examination of the penis to check for any abnormalities, such as lumps or growths, and to evaluate the size and location of any lesions. The doctor may also examine the nearby lymph nodes to check for any signs of cancer spread.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is the only definitive way to diagnose penile cancer. During a biopsy, the doctor will remove a small sample of tissue from the affected area of the penis and send it to a laboratory for examination under a microscope.
• Imaging tests: The doctor may recommend imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, to evaluate the extent of cancer and determine if it has spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs.
• HPV Testing: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a known risk factor for penile cancer. HPV testing may be done to determine if the cancer is related to HPV.

Treatment Penile Cancer

The treatment for penile cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of cancer, the location of the tumor, and the overall health of the patient. Below mentioned are the possible penile cancer treatments:

• Surgery: This is the most common treatment for penile cancer and may involve removing part or all of the penis, nearby lymph nodes, and other affected tissues.
• Radiation therapy: This involves using high-energy beams of radiation to kill cancer cells and may be used before or after surgery, or as a primary treatment for some patients.
• Chemotherapy: This involves using drugs to kill cancer cells and may be used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy for more advanced cases of penile cancer.
• Immunotherapy: This involves using drugs that help the body’s immune system fight cancer cells and may be used in some cases of penile cancer.

How can Dr. Dushyant Pawar help with penile cancer?

Dr. Dushyant Pawar can help with penile cancer in several ways:

• Diagnosis: He can perform a physical examination and order diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of penile cancer.
• Treatment planning: He works with a team of medical professionals to develop an individualized treatment plan based on the stage of cancer, the location of the tumor, and the patient’s overall health.
• Surgery: He is trained in performing surgical procedures for penile cancer, such as penectomy (removal of the penis) or partial penectomy (removal of part of the penis).
• Follow-up care: He can monitor patients during and after treatment to ensure that cancer does not return and provide ongoing care and support to patients.

Conclusion

Penile cancer is a rare but serious condition that affects the tissues of the penis. While the exact cause of penile cancer is unknown, several risk factors, such as HPV infection, smoking, and poor personal hygiene, can increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Working closely with a Urologist like Dr. Dushyant Pawar can help ensure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and ongoing care and support. Early detection and treatment of penile cancer can improve the chances of successful treatment and recovery, so it’s important to seek medical attention from a Urologist like Dr. Dushyant Pawar if any symptoms occur.