Penile Cancer, or cancer of the penis, is a relatively rare form of cancer that affects the skin and tissues of the penis. It occurs when normally healthy cells in the penis become cancerous and begin to grow out of control, forming a tumor.

Penile cancer, or cancer of the penis, is when cells grow out of control on or in a man’s penis. It often starts in skin cells and can work its way inside.

It’s rare. But it can be treated, especially if it’s found early on.

There are several types of penile cancer, including:

• Squamous cell or epidermoid carcinoma:

  This makes up 95% of penile cancer cases. It usually starts on or under your foreskin but can also appear on other parts of your penis.

• Sarcoma:

  These cancers form in tissues like blood vessels, muscle, and fat.

• Melanoma:

  This is cancer that starts in the cells that give your skin color.

• Basal cell carcinoma:

  These cancers start deep in your skin. They grow slowly and aren’t likely to spread to other areas of your body.

Symptoms:

• An area of skin becoming thicker and/or changing color
• A lump on the penis
• An ulcer (sore) that might bleed
• A reddish, velvety rash
• Small, crusty bumps
• Flat, bluish-brown growths
• Smelly discharge (fluid) under the foreskin
• Swelling