Early signs of penile cancer

Penile cancer is completely treatable if detected in its early stages. Therefore, paying attention to early signs not only saves patients' lives but also preserves their sexual function.

1. The importance of early detection of penile cancer

Penile cancer, while not common, is a dangerous disease that often causes complex complications affecting reproductive function, sexual life, and even the patient's life if treatment is delayed.

Medical statistics show that penile cancer, if detected in its early stages, has a very high 5-year survival rate, potentially reaching around 80%. At this stage, tumors are usually small and have not metastasized, allowing doctors to surgically remove the tumor while preserving the shape and important functions of the penis.

Conversely, if the disease is detected at a late stage, cancer cells can spread to nearby tissues or metastasize to distant lymph nodes and other organs. At this point, treatment becomes more complex, potentially requiring the removal of part or all of the genitals, severely impacting the patient's psychology, fertility, and sexual function.

Images of penile cancer.

2. Early warning signs and when cancer begins to spread

The American Cancer Society states that because penile cancer often begins in the skin, its signs and symptoms can usually be detected at an early stage if noticed by a doctor.

Abnormal changes in the skin of the penis are often the first sign, most commonly on the glans or foreskin (especially in uncircumcised men), but can also appear on the shaft of the penis. Specifically:

Changes in the color of the penile skin; a red, velvety rash under the foreskin.

Changes in skin thickness: An area of ​​skin becomes thicker.

The appearance of lumps: A small, scaly lump or nodules; flat, brownish-green lumps. Patients should see a doctor if they notice any new or other unusual lumps on the penis, even if they are not painful.

Ulcer: An ulcer may bleed.

Abnormal discharge: Foul-smelling discharge or bleeding under the foreskin.

Penile swelling: Swelling at the head of the penis, especially when the foreskin is constricted. Pulling the foreskin back may also become more difficult.

Signs of cancer spreading: If penile cancer metastasizes, it usually spreads to the lymph nodes in the groin first, causing them to swell and may feel like lumps under the skin.

Men should see a doctor immediately if they notice any abnormalities in their penis.

Although the signs mentioned above are not always signs of penile cancer and could also be caused by other conditions, men should not be complacent and delay seeking medical attention. In fact, many people delay seeking treatment for months (or longer) after first noticing any abnormalities.

Don't let embarrassment or fear prevent men from getting checked for any abnormalities. Most types of penile cancer are treatable in their early stages. If detected early, cancer can often be removed with little or no significant damage to the penis.

Source: https://giadinh.suckhoedoisong.vn/cac-dau-hieu-som-cua-ung-thu-duong-vat-172260512152137866.htm