Detection and Diagnosis

The most important first step in detecting penile cancer is awareness of changes to the skin of the penis tip (including foreskin, if intact) or shaft. Men should schedule a visit with their physician if there are any abnormalities when it comes to the skin condition of their penis (including warts, sores, or rashes). The physician will examine the penis for any concerning lesions.

If you are at risk for penile cancer, or have been diagnosed, your physician may refer you to our multidisciplinary clinic. Here patients can conveniently interact with several specialists in one visit. 

Our team works together to provide an accurate diagnosis and to create the best treatment plan. When there are options, we will guide you in deciding which treatment pathway is right for you. Our multidisciplinary team includes:

  • Urologists
  • Medical oncologists
  • Radiation oncologists
  • Oncology nurses
  • Genetic counselors
  • Dietitians

Early diagnosis and treatment offer the best outcomes. GW Cancer Center offers the following diagnostic tests for penile cancer:

Biopsy: We remove a small piece of tissue and examine it under the microscope to see if there are cancer cells. We may also check nearby lymph nodes to see if the cancer has spread and to determine the scope (stage) of the cancer.

Imaging studiesStudies, such as X-rays, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) take internal pictures of the body to detect cancerous growths.