Penile Growths
Growths on the penis are sometimes caused by infections. One example is syphilis, (see Section 17, Chapter 200) which may cause flat pink or gray growths (condylomata lata). Also, certain viral infections can produce one or more small, firm, raised skin growths (genital warts, or condylomata acuminata) or small, firm, dimpled growths (molluscum contagiosum).
Skin cancer can occur anywhere on the penis, most commonly at the glans penis, especially its base. Cancers affecting the skin of the penis, uncommon in the United States, are even rarer in men who have been circumcised. The cause of cancer of the penis may be long-standing irritation, usually under the foreskin. Squamous cell carcinoma (see Section 18, Chapter 216) occurs most commonly; less common cancers include Bowen's disease (see Section 18, Chapter 216) and Paget's disease. (see Section 18, Chapter 216) Cancer usually first appears as a painless, reddened area with sores that do not heal for weeks.
To diagnose cancer of the penis, a doctor removes a tissue sample for examination under a microscope (biopsy). To treat the cancer, a surgeon removes it and some normal surrounding tissue, sparing as much of the penis as possible. If a lot of tissue is removed, the penis can often be rebuilt surgically.
Most men with small cancers that have not spread survive for many years after treatment. Most men with cancer that has spread die within 5 years.
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