Penile Cancer Symptoms

Some men who develop penile cancer have obvious signs or symptoms in the early stages. Others may not have symptoms until the disease has spread. Penile cancer signs and symptoms vary from man to man.

Signs and symptoms of penile cancer are almost always located on the glans penis (the head of the penis) or the skin immediately next to the glans penis.

Early signs and symptoms

The first signs and symptoms of penile cancer may include:

• A reddish rash
• Pruritus, or itchy skin
• Small crusty bumps
• Flat, bluish-brown growths
• A wart-like growth that may or may not be painful

Later signs and symptoms

As the disease progresses, penile cancer may cause the following signs and symptoms, which may or may not be painful:

• An open ulcer that won’t heal
• Bleeding from the mass
• Swelling at the end of the penis

Latest signs and symptoms

At its most advanced stages, penile cancer may cause:

• Persistent, smelly mass with discharge or bleeding under the foreskin
• A painful growth that replaces the normal penis
• If the cancer has spread, swollen lymph nodes in the groin

Other conditions with similar signs and symptoms

Other conditions that share some of these signs and symptoms include sexually transmitted diseases, allergic reactions and drug reactions. These conditions can be serious. Patients who have signs or symptoms related to the penis should see their doctor.

When to see a doctor

Males should talk to a doctor if they have signs or symptoms related to the penis that persist for more than two weeks.

Penile cancer risk factors

The risk factors for penile cancer include not being circumcised at birth and having the human papillomavirus, or HPV. Age is also a risk factor, since most cases are in men between ages 50 and 70.

Learn more about penile cancer risk factors.

Penile cancer screening

There are no screening guidelines specifically for penile cancer. While many cancers of the penis are skin cancers, often the penis will not be examined during a routine skin cancer screening.

Instead, males should examine their penis regularly for skin changes. This can be done after bathing.