Assessing a penile lesion
A persistent ulcer, growth or skin change on the penis should be examined. A biopsy helps establish the diagnosis. Not every lesion is cancer, and the examination should be handled sensitively.
For confirmed cancer, the size and depth of the tumour and the status of the groin lymph nodes affect the treatment plan.
Local and lymph node treatment
Selected early disease may allow local or organ-preserving treatment. More extensive disease may require partial or complete removal of the penis. The aim and implications of each option should be explained clearly.
Groin node evaluation is a separate part of care. Sentinel node assessment or lymph node dissection may be considered in suitable circumstances. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy can have roles in more advanced disease.
Surgical expertise and practical planning
Dr. Sachin’s specialist work includes penile cancer surgery and robotic video-endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy (VEIL) in selected cases. A consultation can address the extent of surgery, wound care, swelling and the possible need for reconstruction.
Questions about appearance, sexual health and passing urine are a central part of planning and recovery.
Preparing for the conversation
- Bring the biopsy report and any imaging.
- List earlier treatments to the lesion and any groin operations.
- Ask what can be preserved without compromising cancer treatment.
- Discuss lymph node assessment, follow-up and rehabilitation.
Common questions
Can the penis always be preserved?
No. Organ preservation depends on the tumour’s extent and whether it can be treated adequately while retaining tissue.
Why discuss lymph nodes if the lesion is small?
The visible size of the lesion alone does not settle the risk of nodal involvement. Pathology and other features guide that assessment.