# Penile Cancer

  **Table of Contents**

 **Table of Contents** [Overview](#section-overview "Overview") [Signs & Symptoms](#section-5271 "Signs & Symptoms") [Causes & Risk Factors](#section-5276 "Causes & Risk Factors") [Diagnosing Penile Cancer](#section-8896 "Diagnosing Penile Cancer") [Staging and Grading Penile Cancer](#section-5281 "Staging and Grading Penile Cancer") [Treatments & Services](#section-8906 "Treatments & Services") [Find Care](#section-8911 "Find Care") [Request an Appointment](#section-8931 "Request an Appointment")

## Overview

Penile cancer is a rare disease that begins in the skin or tissues of the penis. Most cases start in the cells that line the skin of the penis and may first appear as subtle skin changes that can easily be mistaken for benign conditions. Early detection is very important, since penile cancer is most treatable in its earliest stages. Penile cancer is not infectious and does not run in families.

## Signs & Symptoms

Changes can vary, but common symptoms include:

- A persistent change in skin color or thickening on the penis
- A sore, growth, or ulcer that does not heal
- Red, scaly, or moist patches on the glans, foreskin, or shaft
- Discharge or bleeding
- Foul smelling fluid underneath the foreskin
- Small crusty bumps or flat bluish-brown lesions
- Swelling of the foreskin or difficulty retracting it
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin

These symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, but it is important to have them evaluated promptly.

## Causes & Risk Factors

The exact cause of penile cancer is not known, but several factors are linked to increased risk:

- **Human papillomavirus (HPV)** infection
- **Lack of circumcision in infancy**, which can make hygiene more difficult
- **Smoking**, which exposes penile tissue to carcinogens
- **Chronic inflammation or poor genital hygiene**
- **Phimosis**, when the foreskin cannot be fully retracted

Having risk factors does not mean cancer will occur, but they can help guide conversations around prevention and monitoring.

## Diagnosing Penile Cancer

Evaluation typically begins with a physical exam and referral to a specialist. Results from these tests guide treatment planning. Diagnostic steps may include:

#####  Biopsy

A small sample of tissue is removed from the abnormal area and examined under a microscope. This confirms the diagnosis and helps determine the cancer type.

#####  Imaging Tests

If cancer is confirmed, imaging may be used to understand whether it has spread:

- CT scan to assess the pelvis, abdomen, or groin
- MRI to evaluate deeper structures
- Ultrasound in select cases

#####  Lymph Node Evaluation

Because penile cancer can spread through the lymphatic system, doctors may assess lymph nodes through:

- Needle biopsy of enlarged nodes
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy, which identifies the first lymph node likely to contain cancer cells
- Inguinal lymph node dissection, if more extensive sampling is needed

## Staging and Grading Penile Cancer

*Staging* describes how far the cancer has spread, using the **TNM system**:

- **T**: size and depth of the primary tumor
- **N**: involvement of lymph nodes
- **M**: presence of metastasis

These categories are combined into **Stage 1 through Stage 4**, which help determine prognosis and treatment options.

*Grading* describes how abnormal the cancer cells look under the microscope. Higher-grade tumors tend to grow and spread more quickly.

## Treatments & Services

 Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage, location, and extent of the cancer. Common options include:

[Chemotherapy](/all-treatments-services/chemotherapy)

[Immunotherapy](/all-treatments-services/immunotherapy)

[Radiation Therapy](/all-treatments-services/radiation-therapy)

[Surgical Oncology](/all-treatments-services/surgical-oncology)

## Find Care

If you have noticed concerning skin changes or symptoms, or if you have been diagnosed with penile cancer, our care team is here to help. We offer expert evaluation, evidence-based treatment options, and supportive care at every step. Find a specialist or schedule an appointment to get the answers and guidance you need.

Our Locations

We offer locations across the DFW metroplex so you can receive leading cancer care and support close to home.

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Our Care Team

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 [Meet Our Team](/our-care-team)

## Request an Appointment

Contact us to request an appointment or ask a question below. **For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest hospital.**

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