What should you know about glans melanoma?

The glans is the rounded end of the penis. Melanoma can begin in pigment-producing cells there and may appear as a dark patch, spot or nodule. Warning features include asymmetry, an irregular border, several colours, enlargement, bleeding, ulceration or a lesion that looks unlike other marks. Benign pigmentation can look similar, so appearance alone cannot confirm or exclude cancer. A clinician may examine nearby lymph nodes and arrange a biopsy to identify the cells and depth of disease.

Book a prompt appointment with a dermatologist, urologist or specialist cancer team, and avoid picking, shaving over or applying unprescribed creams to the lesion. Take note of when it changed and whether there is bleeding, soreness or a lump in the groin. If melanoma is confirmed, the team may discuss surgical excision or other skin cancer surgery, assessment of lymph nodes with sentinel lymph node biopsy, and treatment based on staging. Advanced disease may lead to a discussion of immunotherapy.

Seek prompt medical review for any new or changing pigmented lesion on the glans, especially with bleeding, ulceration, persistent pain, discharge or a groin lump. Attend urgent care for heavy bleeding, inability to pass urine, severe swelling or rapidly worsening pain. Do not wait for a lesion to become painful before arranging assessment.

Ask whether a biopsy is needed, what the pathology report will describe, whether lymph-node staging is appropriate, and which specialist will coordinate care. If melanoma is diagnosed, ask about the purpose and effects of surgery, possible reconstruction, systemic treatment, follow-up after cancer treatment and signs of recurrence.