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Growths on the penis are sometimes caused by infections. One example is syphilis, (see Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Syphilis) 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 Skin Cancers: Squamous Cell Carcinoma) occurs most commonly; less common cancers include Bowen's disease (see Skin Cancers: Bowen's disease) and Paget's disease. (see Skin Cancers: Paget's Disease of the Nipple) 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.
Last full review/revision February 2003
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