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Penile cancer primarily originates from the skin or mucosal epithelium of the penis, with squamous cell carcinoma being the most common type. Middle-aged and elderly men are particularly at risk, and the disease is often difficult to detect early. Globally, its incidence is low, being rare in Europe, the U.S., and Japan, but relatively higher in parts of Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia, where HPV infection, poor hygiene, and foreskin-related issues are contributing factors.
In Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines, penile cancer, though rare, occurs sporadically and can severely impact male genital function and psychological health. In advanced stages, tumors may invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to lymph nodes or distant organs, making treatment difficult and severely affecting quality of life and social functioning.
Stage I: Confined to penile mucosa or skin
Stage I tumors are small and confined to the penile region without deep invasion or lymph node involvement. They can be cured by local excision or conservative surgery, with a 5-year survival rate of over 90%.
Stage II: Tumor expansion without lymph node involvement
The tumor enlarges but has not yet affected regional lymph nodes. Treatments include partial penectomy and local radiotherapy, with a 5-year survival rate of about 75%–80%.
Stage III: Regional lymph node metastasis
Cancer cells have spread to local or regional lymph nodes, requiring combined surgical and adjuvant therapy. The 5-year survival rate drops to 50%–60%, and treatment complexity increases.
Stage IV: Distant metastasis or organ invasion
The tumor has spread to distant organs such as the pelvis, lungs, or liver, with obvious symptoms. The 5-year survival rate is usually less than 30%, requiring comprehensive treatment to extend life.
1. Penile skin or mucosal lesions
Red patches, ulcers, nodules, or plaques may appear on the penis surface. These are hard, persistent, and often accompanied by mild pain or itching. Without treatment, the lesions continue to spread.
2. Penile pain and burning sensation
Pain or burning sensations often occur at the lesion site, especially during friction or contact, affecting sexual life and daily activities.
3. Foul discharge and exudation
The tumor surface may secrete exudates or emit a foul odor, suggesting ulceration or infection, symptoms that are often overlooked and delay diagnosis.
4. Difficulty or painful urination
Some patients may experience difficulty urinating, a thin urine stream, or painful urination due to tumor compression of the urethra, impairing urinary system function.
5. Enlarged and tender lymph nodes
Squamous cell carcinoma often causes inguinal lymph node enlargement, which may feel hard and painful, indicating regional lymph node metastasis.
6. Weight loss and fatigue
As the disease progresses, patients may experience weight loss, reduced appetite, and persistent fatigue, typical signs of systemic consumption.
7. Decline in sexual function
Penile lesions often lead to reduced libido and erectile dysfunction. Pain, psychological fear, or surgery may contribute to difficulties with erections.
8. Depression and anxiety
Due to the sensitive nature of the disease, many patients suffer from psychological burdens such as anxiety and depression, which negatively affect treatment compliance and recovery.
Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that although penile cancer is rare, once symptoms appear, timely medical attention is essential. When penile ulcers, unexplained pain, or lymph node enlargement occur, comprehensive diagnosis and intervention with imaging, pathology, and immune reconstruction cell therapy should be undertaken. Early recognition, scientific treatment, and integrated management help delay disease progression and improve survival and quality of life.
