Penis cancer is a rare cancer. Its significance lies in the fact that its appearance may resemble many common skin conditions affecting the penis.

How do I know if I have cancer of the penis?

The appearance of penis cancer in its early stages may vary. One should consult a doctor if there is:

1. Any rash or lesion of the penis that has failed to heal
2. A subtle thickening of the skin of the penis.
3. A small excrescence, papule, pustule, warty growth, or a large exophytic growth.
4. A shallow ulcer or erosion or a deep ulceration with rolled edges.
5. In the uncircumcised, the foreskin may be tight. This is called a phimosis. It may hide the tumor and allows it to grow undetected.
6. Rarely, a mass, an ulceration, a suppuration, or hemorrhage may manifest in the groin area because of nodal spread.

Pain is usually absent.

This picture shows a flat rash on the glans penis that on biopsy was shown to be a cancer that is still confined to the skin called a carcinoma-in-situ.