There are no widely recommended screening tests for penile cancer, but many cases can be found early.

Almost all penile cancers start in the skin, so they may be noticed early in the course of the disease. Cancers that start under the foreskin may not be seen as quickly, especially if phimosis (constriction of the foreskin) is present. Some penile cancers may cause symptoms that appear to be due to a disease other than cancer.

Even if a man sees or feels something abnormal, he may not recognize it as something that needs medical attention right away. You should see a doctor if you find a new growth or other abnormality of your penis, even if it is not painful. Things like warts, blisters, sores, ulcers, white patches, or other abnormal areas need to be looked at by a doctor. Most are not cancerous, but they may be caused by an infection or some other condition that needs to be treated.

Unfortunately, some men avoid going to the doctor for lesions (abnormalities) on their penis. Many men with penile lesions delay seeking treatment for a year or more after they first notice the problem.

If a cancer is found early, it can often be removed with little or no damage to the penis. If it is not diagnosed until later, part or all of the penis may need to be removed to treat the cancer. It is also more likely to require other, more invasive treatments, and may even be life threatening.

Last Medical Review: 10/07/2009
Last Revised: 10/07/2009