The cancer found in the cells of the penis is known as penile cancer. It is more common among men in Southeast Asia, Africa and very rarely found in United States. Penile cancer is the most rare form of cancer all over the world. The external male reproductive organ which passes urine and sperm out of the body is known as penis. It is made up of two erectile tissues- corpora cavemosa and corpus spongiosum. These tissues are covered with skin and wrapped in connective tissues.

The head of the penis is covered with foreskin, loose skin. Mainly penile cancer is of squamous cell carcinomas, which develops in the lining of the penis. It can be best treated if found at an initial stage. As the size of tumor increases, it spreads to the other parts of the body such as lymph nodes in the groin or pelvis or deep inside the penis. Penile cancer can be cured easily if only inguinal lymph nodes are affected by it. But cure rates decreases if pelvic lymph nodes are also affected by it. People of age above 60 years are more likely to develop penile cancer. Other factors which increases the chances of developing it are heavy intake of tobacco, having poor personal hygiene and many sexual partners.

The most common penile cancer symptoms ever found is the appearance of the sore. Most of the symptoms of penile cancer causes no pain. The symptoms of penile cancer greatly varies depending upon the size, stage and location of the tumor in the penis. An ulcerated area on the skin of the penis, which doesn't heal and remain for more than 4 weeks is also a major penile cancer symptom. A change in the color of the skin of the penis can be seen.

A lesion or lump may appear on the head of the penis, the glans. Other potential penile cancer symptoms are irritation, rashes or redness in the nearby skin of the penis. Sometimes bleeding from the foreskin or penis can be seen. A fluid discharge from the glans of the penis, which has a foul smell can also be an important penile cancer symptom. The symptoms of penile cancer at it's advanced stage includes fatigue, pain in the joints of the arms and legs, loss of appetite and tiredness.

Unwanted weight loss can be experienced due to decrease in the amount of appetite, which may cause many other serious problems such as anemia. Pain in the stomach and swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin are the major penile cancer symptoms in the stage 3 or 4. Most of the men find it difficult to see a doctor even if they notice changes in their penis. But remember penile cancer can be cured fully only if is treated at an early stage. So it is important to see a doctor as soon as you notice any of the above mentioned penile cancer symptoms.