Does penile cancer cause a new lump or swelling?

Penile cancer may appear as a lump, thickened area, ulcer, or swelling on the penis. A change may occur on the glans, foreskin, or shaft, and it may bleed, crust, discharge fluid, or fail to heal. However, infection, inflammation, injury, or a benign skin condition can produce similar findings.

A clinician may inspect the area, feel nearby groin lymph nodes, and arrange tests if the finding remains concerning. A biopsy can examine a small tissue sample when needed. The symptom alone cannot establish the cause, so avoid trying to diagnose it from appearance or online pictures.

Arrange a medical appointment for a new lump or swelling that persists, grows, changes colour, becomes painful, bleeds, or is joined by discharge. Note when it began, whether it changes with washing or sexual activity, and whether you have sores, fever, or urinary difficulty.

Keep the area clean and avoid squeezing, cutting, or applying unprescribed creams. If you have a foreskin, tell the clinician whether it can be moved normally. A prompt examination can distinguish a treatable infection or irritation from a problem needing specialist assessment.

Seek urgent care for severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, inability to pass urine, rapidly increasing swelling, a trapped foreskin, or fever with spreading redness. Emergency help is appropriate for fainting, severe weakness, or heavy bleeding. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these problems affect urination or your general condition.

What could be causing this lump or swelling? Do you recommend a biopsy or infection testing? Should my groin nodes be checked? Which changes mean I should contact you sooner, and how should I care for the area while waiting?