Treatment of penile cancer

Early penile cancer can often be treated effectively with less invasive options. This includes topical treatments like medicated creams and minor surgical procedures to remove affected tissue while preserving as much of the healthy penis as possible.

Radiation therapy is the use of high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells. It can be directed at cancer from outside of the body (external beam radiotherapy) or from within the body (brachytherapy). Both types of radiotherapy can be used to treat penile cancer which is confined to the penis as an alternative to surgery.

Radiotherapy and chemotherapy can be used to treat penile cancer which has spread to other areas of the body such as lymph nodes or other organs. This is called metastatic disease.

The aim of all surgery is to preserve as much of the penis as possible while removing all of the cancer. Surgery will change the appearance of your penis and you should discuss how the penis may look after surgery with your surgeon. It may take up to 3-months for the penis to fully heal and its appearance will improve over time.

If you are finding it difficult to prepare psychologically for surgery, you should consider asking to be referred to a cancer counsellor to talk through your fears and concerns.

Clinical trials are used to try and improve ways of treating cancer or reducing possible side effects of treatment. If you are being treated for penile cancer which has spread to other areas of your body, you may be asked if you wish to take part in a clinical trial involving a combination of treatment, or immunotherapy. If you agree to take part, you can still opt out of the trial in the future without affecting your care or treatment.

InPACT trial
Researchers are trying to find out whether surgery to remove lymph nodes in the abdomen after chemotherapy or radiotherapy is better than surgery on its own. Or, whether a different operation to remove lymph nodes in the abdomen is better than standard surgery.

EPIC trial
Researchers are trying to find out if immunotherapy treatment (see below) on its own or in combination with chemotherapy can reduce cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

This chapter contains general information about treatment options for penile cancer. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

Last updated: January 2025