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Penile Cancer - Types and Stages of Penile Cancer

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Penile cancer, or penile carcinoma, is a rare form of cancer in men. There are different types of penile cancer, depending on the type of cell that they arise from. Depending on the extent of the disease, penile carcinoma is classified into different stages. Obtaining a detailed understanding of this cancer, its prevalence, its types, and its stages can help in the possible prevention and early detection of this cancer.

What is Penile Cancer?

Penile cancer refers to cancer occurring in the penis. Certain genetic mutations in the penile cells can cause them to divide abnormally and form a mass or tumor. In most cases, penile carcinoma emerges in the skin or covering tissues.

With early detection and timely intervention, it is possible to treat penile carcinoma successfully. For an early diagnosis, one needs to be mindful of the different symptoms associated with this cancer and see a doctor if any of those symptoms are persistently experienced.

How Common is Penile Cancer?

In India, penile cancer is relatively rare. The risk factors associated with this cancer type include age, lifestyle choices, HPV infection, race and ethnicity, poor hygiene, etc. In 2022, about 4300 cases of penile carcinoma were recorded in India, and the incidence rate of this cancer stood at 1 in 917. Cancer of the penis is more prevalent among adults who are 60 and older. Reports suggest that in Asian, African, and South American countries, penile cancer accounts for 10% of all cancers in men.

Reports suggest that penile carcinoma incidence may increase significantly if appropriate preventive measures are not adopted. Along with preventive measures, it is also important to learn about the types, symptoms, possible causes, and treatment options for the effective management of this disease.

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Types of Penile Cancer

There are different types of penile cancer, depending on the type of cell they arise from. Some penile cancer types are more prevalent than others. Also, the growth rate and aggressiveness may vary from one to another. The type of penile carcinoma is an important parameter that specialists consider while creating treatment plans for this cancer.

The following are the different penile cancer types:

Squamous Cell Cancer

Squamous cell carcinoma, or squamous cell cancer, is the most common type of penile carcinoma. This cancer type arises from the thin, flat cells that are present on the surface of the penis. In the early stages, there will be changes in the texture and appearance of the skin, and in the advanced stages, there may be palpable lumps present.

Carcinoma in Situ (CIS)

When the cancerous cells are confined to the surface layer of the penile skin, it is referred to as Carcinoma in Situ (CIS). This is a precancerous condition that can progress to become an invasive cancer if left untreated. Carcinoma in Situ of the penis may often cause itching, burning sensations, ulceration of the glans, etc. It is important not to ignore these symptoms and receive timely treatment.

Penile Intraepithelial Neoplasia (PeIN)

Penile intraepithelial neoplasia (PeIN) refers to the abnormal growth of cells within the penile epithelium. This condition may also serve as a precursor to invasive penile carcinoma. Those with this condition may experience changes in the texture and appearance of the penile skin, irritation, painful urination, and unusual discharge. Undergoing a proper evaluation of these symptoms supports early detection, prevention, and effective management of invasive penile carcinoma.

Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)

Basal cell carcinoma is one of the rare penile cancer types, and it arises from the basal cells of the skin. It has a slower growth rate, and it is relatively less aggressive than squamous cell carcinoma of the penis.

Adenocarcinoma

Adenocarcinoma of the penis arises from the glandular cells that are responsible for the production of sweat. This is also one of the rare penile cancer types.

Melanoma

This is an aggressive form of penile carcinoma that forms in the pigment-producing cells of the penis. It is characterized by the presence of pigmented nodules or lesions. Melanoma of the penis demands a careful evaluation and comprehensive treatment due to its aggressive nature.

Penile Sarcoma

Penile sarcoma is one of the rare penile cancer types, and it forms in the connective tissues of the penis. Appropriate medical intervention supports its effective management.

How Serious is Penile Cancer?

Despite being a rare form of cancer, penile cancer is a serious condition and requires prompt medical attention. The severity of penile carcinoma depends on its type, its stage during the diagnosis, and specific tumor parameters. Early detection and timely treatment become extremely important in the efficient management of penile carcinoma.

What are the Different Penile Cancer Stages?

Penile cancer is categorized into different stages, depending on the extent of the disease. Staging is a crucial phase of penile carcinoma management, as it guides treatment decisions and provides insights into the prognosis.

TNM staging of penile cancer, which is a widely accepted form of staging, involves determining the extent of tumor (T) growth, lymph node involvement (N), and distant metastasis (M). Based on the information obtained from TNM staging, doctors categorize penile carcinoma under stages 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.

The following are the different penile cancer stages:

SStage 0 Penile Cancer

Stage 0 penile carcinoma refers to the precancerous state. The disease is localized to the skin's surface and has not invaded deeper tissues. Stage 0 cases are often treated with surgery alone.

Stage 1 Penile Cancer

Stage 1 penile cancer is confined to the penis, and it is the first stage of penile cancer. With early detection and appropriate treatment, penile cancer stage 1 can be treated successfully.

Stage 2 Penile Cancer

In stage 2, cancer has spread to nearby structures or tissues, but not to lymph nodes. Treatment may involve a combination of surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.

Stage 3 Penile Cancer

In stage 3, cancer has reached nearby lymph nodes or other structures. Treatment becomes more extensive, and the prognosis depends on the extent of the spread.

Stage 4 Penile Cancer

Stage 4 penile cancer refers to the advanced stage where the disease has spread to distant body parts. Treatment primarily involves delaying the disease's progression and reducing symptoms.



Conclusion

Penile cancer is a rare form of cancer that demands prompt medical attention for its efficient management. Learning about different penile cancer types, its stages, and its severity can help one make informed health decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does penile cancer look like at the start?

Penile cancer often presents with symptoms like changes in skin color, lumps, or ulcers on the penis. Being mindful of different penile cancer symptoms and opting for regular screening may help in its early detection and timely treatment.

The rate at which penile cancer spreads depends on its type; some types of penile carcinoma spread at a faster rate, while others don’t.

As the earliest stage, stage 0 penile cancer is characterized by the presence of precancerous lesions or changes on the skin and may appear as discolored patches.

Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type of penile cancer.

The success rates or clinical outcomes of penile carcinoma treatment depend on factors like the stage during its diagnosis, the treatment administered, the patient’s age and overall health, and lastly, the treatment response shown by the patient.

The clinical outcomes are excellent if this cancer is diagnosed and treated in the early stages.