What Is Penile Cancer?
Penile cancer is a rare but serious disease that affects the tissues of the penis.
Because penile cancer is uncommon, it is often mistaken for a minor skin problem and diagnosed later than it should be. Caught early, it is highly treatable. At New Jersey Cancer Care, PA, our experienced oncologists care for men diagnosed with penile cancer and work alongside your urologist and surgical team to build a treatment plan around your diagnosis, your stage, and your overall health.
On-site chemotherapy, precision medicine, on-site lab testing, and supportive care are available under one roof, and eligible patients may also have access to clinical trials through our cancer research program. There is no need to travel long distances to receive expert cancer care. Request an appointment at our Belleville, Montclair, or Roselle office to meet our care team.
Symptoms of Penile Cancer
The signs and symptoms of penile cancer may vary depending on the location and stage of the disease.
Common symptoms typically include:
- A lump or growth on the penis
- Changes in the color or thickness of the skin
- Small, crusty bumps
- Persistent sores or ulcers
- Bleeding or discharge from the penis
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin
- Pain or discomfort in the penis
- Smelly discharge (1)
Many of these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your provider to see if it is cancer.
How Is Penile Cancer Treated?
After your provider conducts imaging tests or a biopsy to confirm the cancer, you can move forward with treatment. Treatment for penile cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the size and location of the tumor, and your overall health.
Treatment options may include:
- Surgery – Surgical removal of the tumor may be performed, either through a partial or total penectomy (removal of part or all of the penis)
- Radiation Therapy – High-energy radiation is used to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors
- Chemotherapy – Drugs may be used to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing and dividing
- Mohs Surgery – A specialized surgical technique that removes cancerous tissue layer by layer, minimizing damage to healthy tissue (2)
Schedule Your Appointment Today
If you have noticed a lump, sore, or other change that will not heal, do not wait to have it checked. Penile cancer responds best to treatment when it is found early, and many of its symptoms have simple, non-cancerous causes.
If you have been diagnosed with penile cancer, or your provider has recommended that you see an oncologist, the team at New Jersey Cancer Care, PA is here to help. We provide quality, personalized cancer care close to home at three New Jersey locations:
- Belleville: (973) 751-8880
- Montclair: (973) 744-8000
- Roselle: (908) 259-8817
Request an appointment online or call the office nearest you to schedule your consultation.