Penile Cancer
Specialized treatment for penile cancer including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and lymph node management with preservation of function when possible.
Penile Cancer
Solid Tumors
Overview
Specialized treatment for penile cancer including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and lymph node management with preservation of function when possible.
When to Consult
Upon detection of penile lesion, ulcer, or confirmed penile cancer diagnosis.
What to Bring
Biopsy reports, photographs of the lesion, imaging scans (CT, MRI), and urological history.
Risk Factors
Causes
Treatment Options
Circumcision
Surgical removal of the foreskin for early-stage penile cancer confined to the prepuce. Simple procedure that may be curative for very early lesions and helps prevent recurrence.
Partial Penectomy
Surgical removal of part of the penis while preserving enough length for urination and sexual function. Used for tumors on the glans or shaft that cannot be treated with less invasive methods.
Total Penectomy
Complete removal of the penis for advanced or extensive tumors. Requires creation of a new opening (perineal urethrostomy) for urination. Reserved for cases where organ preservation is not possible.
Laser Therapy
Carbon dioxide or Nd:YAG laser to destroy small, superficial penile tumors. Minimally invasive option that preserves penile structure and function, suitable for early-stage lesions.
Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation or brachytherapy (radioactive seed implants) to destroy cancer cells while preserving penile structure. Alternative to surgery for selected patients, with careful monitoring for recurrence.
Chemotherapy
Systemic drug therapy (cisplatin, 5-FU, methotrexate) for advanced or metastatic penile cancer. May be used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors or for palliative care in advanced disease.