Penile Cancer Flashcards
What are the symptoms of penile cancer?
Growth or sore on the penis that doesn't heal within 4 weeks Bleeding Discharge Colour change Palpable lump Phimosis
What is the most common type of penile cancer?
Squamous cell carcinoma
Others include small cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma melanoma, sarcoma, adenocarcinoma
What are some risk factors for penile cancer?
HIV infection HPV infection Poor hygiene Phimosis Age Chronic or repeated episodes of balanitis Lichen sclerosus Smoking Immunosuppression
What should be examined with penile cancer?
Inspect the penis
Retract the foreskin
Palpate the inguinal lymph nodes
What investigations might be done for penile cancer?
Excision biopsy
FNAC of the inguinal nodes to assess for spread/Sentinel Node Biopsy
MRI/CT for staging
Note- if cancer cells are present in the inguinal nodes lymph node clearance will be required.
What are the urgent referral criteria for suspected penile cancer?
A lump or ulcerated area on the penis that is not caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
A sore area that hasn’t gone away after you have had treatment for an STI
Unexplained or continuing symptoms that affect the foreskin or the head of the penis (glans)
It is abnormal for lesions to persist for more than 4 weeks
What treatment options may be used for penile cancer?
Surgical excision of the lesion
Surgical removal or the penis or part of it: penectomy
Radiotherapy
Chemotherapy
Circumcision may be done if it is confined to the foreskin.
