Penile Cancer

The American Cancer Society estimates about 2,200 new cases of penile cancer are diagnosed in the United States every year, affecting fewer than 1 in 100,000 men.

When patients have this form of cancer, the Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute team collaborates closely with colleagues at the Tallwood Urology & Kidney Institute. Their expertise is invaluable in determining the best care plan for you.

Symptoms of Penile Cancer

Patients with penile cancer may experience:

• Sores on the penis
• Discharge
• Bleeding of the penis

Diagnosing Penile Cancer

We perform a biopsy of the suspicious area to determine if it is penile cancer. After diagnosis, further tests determine if cancer cells have spread within the penis or to other parts of the body. These can include CT scan, MRI, ultrasound, chest X-ray or more biopsies.

Treating Penile Cancer

Surgery is the most common treatment for all stages of penile cancer. Our goal is to remove the cancer without affecting your quality of life.

Most men can be treated successfully with such minimally invasive techniques as:

• Mohs microscopically-controlled surgery
• Laser surgery
• Cryosurgery

In severe cancer cases, more extensive procedures may be necessary. Some patients also may require chemotherapy or radiation therapy after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.