Journal of Cancer Clinical Research

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Rapid Communication - Journal of Cancer Clinical Research (2023) Volume 6, Issue 3

Penile cancer: Current trends and future perspectives

Maarten Parnham *

Department of Urology, Aarhus University Hospital Aarhus, Denmark

*Corresponding Author:
Maarten Parnham
Department of Urology
Aarhus University Hospital
Aarhus, Denmark
E-mail: maarten@parnham.dn

Received:25-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. AACCR-23-112251; Editor assigned:28-Aug-2023, PreQC No. AACCR-23-112251(PQ); Reviewed:11-Sep-2023, QC No. AACCR-23-112251; Revised:18-Sep-2023, Manuscript No. AACCR-23-112251(R); Published:25-Sep-2023, DOI:10.35841/ aaccr-6.3.158

Citation: Parnham M. Penile cancer: Current trends and future perspect. J Can Clinical Res. 2023; 6(3):158

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Introduction

Penile cancer is a rare malignancy, accounting for less than 1% of all cancers in men worldwide. Despite its low incidence, it can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, emphasizing the importance of early detection and comprehensive management. This mini-review aims to provide an overview of key aspects of penile cancer, from its epidemiology to recent advances in diagnosis and treatment.

Penile cancer, a relatively rare malignancy, primarily affects older men and can have a significant impact on quality of life. While advancements in understanding its etiology and management have been made, penile cancer remains a challenging condition to diagnose and treat. This mini-review article provides an overview of the epidemiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnostic strategies, treatment modalities, and emerging trends in penile cancer research. [1].

Penile cancer, although relatively rare, is a malignancy that profoundly impacts the lives of those affected. It develops in the tissues of the penis and can manifest in various forms, posing a complex set of challenges for patients, their families, and healthcare providers. Despite its low incidence compared to other cancers, penile cancer's physical and psychological consequences underscore the importance of understanding its etiology, risk factors, clinical presentation, and management. In this comprehensive review, we delve into the intricate facets of penile cancer, shedding light on its epidemiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and ongoing research initiatives, with the aim of advancing our knowledge and improving patient outcomes.

Penile cancer is most commonly diagnosed in men aged 60 and older, with a peak incidence between 65 and 75 years of age. The global incidence varies widely, with higher rates in some regions, such as parts of South America, Africa, and Asia. In contrast, the incidence is relatively lower in North America and Europe. Risk factors for penile cancer include smoking, poor hygiene, phimosis (tight foreskin), and the presence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection [2].

Penile cancer typically presents as a painless lesion on the penis, with the glans and prepuce being the most common sites of origin. Other symptoms may include bleeding, ulceration, and changes in skin color. Early diagnosis is crucial for favorable outcomes, as advanced disease can lead to metastasis to regional lymph nodes or distant sites. Diagnosis of penile cancer involves a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and biopsy. High-resolution ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Computed Tomography (CT) scans may be used to determine the extent of the disease and evaluate lymph node involvement. A biopsy is essential to confirm the presence of cancer and to determine its histological type and grade [3].

Treatment options for penile cancer depend on the stage of the disease. Localized disease (Stage I and some Stage II) can often be managed with surgical excision, including partial or total penectomy, depending on the tumor's size and location. For more advanced disease with lymph node involvement, inguinal lymph node dissection may be required. In cases of metastatic disease, systemic therapies such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy may be considered. HPV Vaccination: Given the association between HPV infection and penile cancer, HPV vaccination programs have gained importance in preventing this malignancy. Penile-Preserving Surgery: Advances in surgical techniques aim to preserve as much of the penis as possible, improving patients' quality of life without compromising oncologic outcomes. Targeted Therapies and Immunotherapy: Ongoing research explores targeted therapies and immunotherapeutic approaches to treat advanced penile cancer, offering new hope for patients with metastatic disease. Identifying genetic mutations associated with penile cancer may pave the way for personalized treatment strategies [4].

Penile cancer remains a rare but clinically significant malignancy that primarily affects older men. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are critical for improved outcomes. Recent developments in vaccination, surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy hold promise for enhancing the management of penile cancer and improving the quality of life for affected individuals. Increased awareness, prevention strategies, and ongoing research efforts are essential to further progress in combating this challenging condition [5].

References

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  3. Tang DH, Djajadiningrat R, Diorio G, et al. Adjuvant pelvic radiation is associated with improved survival and decreased disease recurrence in pelvic node-positive penile cancer after lymph node dissection: A multi-institutional study. In Urologic Oncology: Seminars and Original Investigations 2017;35(10):605-e17.

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  5. de Vries HM, Ottenhof SR, van der Heijden MS, et al. Management of the penile squamous cell carcinoma patient after node positive radical inguinal lymph node dissection: current evidence and future prospects. Curr Opin Urol. 2020;30(2):223-8.

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