Initially, Mr. Quang's lump was small, like a grain of rice, then grew to the size of a little fingertip, becoming palpable and visible. Doctor Doan Ngoc Thien, from the Andrology Department at the Urology - Nephrology - Andrology Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, stated that the lump measured 3x3 cm, located in the right coronal sulcus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a papillary lesion beneath the skin and subcutaneous connective tissue of the penile shaft. A tissue sample was taken for testing, confirming cancer.

Fortunately, Mr. Quang's cancer was detected at an early stage and had not yet spread to nearby lymph nodes. Surgeons removed the tumor, preserving the shape of the penis in a 90-minute operation. Mr. Quang's follow-up appointment one month later showed good recovery.

Doctor Thien (center) and the surgical team performing penile cancer surgery for a patient. Photo: Hoai Thuong

The incidence of penile cancer in Vietnam is 0.67 per 100,000 population, commonly affecting men in their 50s and 70s. It ranks 17th among common cancers in males. The exact cause of the disease is not fully understood, but risk factors include phimosis, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. Other factors such as poor hygiene and smoking also increase the risk of developing this type of cancer.

At the Andrology Department, Urology - Nephrology - Andrology Center, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, doctors have successfully treated many men with penile cancer, including the youngest case at 21 years old.

According to Doctor Thien, symptoms of this condition are easily mistaken for infections or allergic reactions. Some men hesitate to seek examination for genital issues or are complacent, leading to late-stage diagnosis when treatment becomes challenging. At this point, patients may require partial or total penile amputation and lymph node removal surgery. Depending on the condition, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be needed to eradicate cancer cells. The disease can also metastasize to other organs such as the bladder, anus, and joints, making treatment difficult and increasing mortality rates.

Doctors advise men to seek timely medical examination and treatment if they notice any unusual signs on their penis. Proactive regular health check-ups, including examinations of the reproductive system, are crucial. Practicing safe sex helps prevent the risk of HPV and HIV infection. Maintaining good genital hygiene and avoiding smoking can also improve the body's immunity.

Hoai Thuong

*Patient's name has been changed