Questions posted in the The Urology Forum have been answered by urologists from Henry Ford Health System and by Dr. Kevin Pho.

Question Title: Is persistent soreness of glans cancer?

Forum: The Urology Forum
Topic: Penile Cancer

I have had a persistent sore spot on the left tip of my
penis for about 6 years. Recently it has become more noticeable,
meaning more painful.

At the time that I originally noticed the soreness I visited my
school's health service where I was examined for Herpes, HPV,
and other various STD. The irritation remained and I was
examined a year later without a diagnosis. I was told that the
amount of cycling I did might be irritating the skin and I was
given lidocaine to numb the pain.

The pain is located at the very tip of the penis, at the mouth
of the urethra, on the left side. Near the "center" of the pain
there is a very slight difernce in skin, being slighty raised,
having perhaps a cresent or caldera shape and is slighly more
grey than the other tissue. The area of pain then extends along
the opening of the urethra about 1/4 of an inch to the lower
edge of the head. The "center" which is about 1-1.5mm in size
also seems to be slightly moister than the surrounding tissue,
and seems to attract significantly more lint than that rest of
the area. The area hasn't changed visibly in the last 2 years,
perhaps longer - I cannot remember beyond that.

I would appreciate any info you could share.

Dear Umberto
Thanks for your question.
As you know it is very difficult to give a diagnosis over the internet. If you see a lesion at the tip of the penis go and see a dermatologist for a possible biopsy. Penile cancer is rare but is curable if caught early before invasion to the deeper tissues. HPV can be diagnosed so you can notify female partners about possible cervical cancer risk and spread of the virus. If there is no lesion, the tip of the penis is a common location for referred pain from the prostate and urethra and a urologist maybe helpful. Good Luck.
More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling (1 800 653 6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians’ notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly.

This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
Sincerely;
HFHS-M.D. MS
* Keyword: penile lesion

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