Penile cancer symptoms

Changes can affect the foreskin, glans or shaft. They may include a sore that does not heal, a wart-like growth, a thickened or altered-colour area, bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, swelling, or difficulty pulling back the foreskin. A lump in the groin can reflect enlarged lymph nodes. These findings can have non-cancer causes such as infection or irritation, but persistence or progression warrants an examination.

A clinician may inspect the area, feel the groin and arrange a biopsy or other tests if the appearance is concerning. A symptom alone cannot establish the diagnosis, and a penile skin change does not automatically indicate cancer.

Arrange an appointment with a doctor or urologist if a penile change persists, returns or is becoming more noticeable. Keep the area clean and dry, avoid picking or applying unprescribed creams, and note when the change began, whether it bleeds, and any pain, discharge or urinary difficulty. A clinician may discuss [Tumour Removal Surgery](/treatments/surgical-oncology/tumour-removal-surgery/) or [Radiotherapy](/treatments/radiation-oncology/radiotherapy/) only after assessment and diagnosis.

Seek prompt medical care for heavy bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, inability to pass urine, fever with spreading redness, or a trapped retracted foreskin. Emergency help is appropriate for uncontrolled bleeding, inability to urinate or severe illness. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these problems occur.

Ask what could explain the change, whether a biopsy is needed, how soon results may be available, and whether nearby lymph nodes need examination. Tell the clinician about previous infections, skin conditions, treatments and any change in urination or sexual function.