Penile melanoma: what to know

Melanoma can arise in pigmented skin of the penis, including the glans or foreskin. A lesion may become darker, develop several colours, lose symmetry, have an irregular edge, enlarge, bleed, or form an ulcer, though early disease may be subtle. A specialist examines the area and nearby lymph nodes. A biopsy identifies the cell type and depth; additional assessment then considers whether disease is confined to the original site or has spread.

A penile pigmented spot is not automatically melanoma. Benign moles, irritation, and other lesions can look similar, so visual comparison or self-treatment cannot establish the diagnosis.

Arrange prompt review with a dermatologist, urologist, or cancer team for a changing or persistent lesion. Do not shave, burn, biopsy, or apply wart treatments yourself. Treatment may involve Surgical Excision or other Skin Cancer Surgery, with the extent guided by the lesion and biopsy findings. A Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy may be discussed for selected cases. More advanced disease can require systemic treatment such as Immunotherapy.

Seek urgent assessment for active bleeding, a rapidly enlarging lesion, an open sore, severe pain, difficulty urinating, or a new lump in the groin. Emergency help is needed for uncontrolled bleeding, inability to pass urine, or severe illness. Do not wait for symptoms to become painful; a changing pigmented lesion merits timely review.

Ask what type of biopsy is suitable, what the pathology report measures, whether lymph-node assessment is indicated, and which surgical options preserve function. Discuss wound care, sexual activity during healing, the need for scans, and how Follow-Up After Cancer Treatment will be organised.