Research on Current Progress in Penile Cancer

A special issue of Cancers (ISSN 2072-6694). This special issue belongs to the section "Cancer Therapy".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 25 April 2026 | Viewed by 7166

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Urology, The University of Arizona, 1200 E University Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
Interests: urology

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Urology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W. Markham St., Little Rock, AR 72205, USA
Interests: urology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) is an aggressive cancer associated with significant treatment morbidity and psychosocial stress. Metastatic PSCC has a dismal prognosis and its treatment relies on the utilization of conventional treatments employing a multidisciplinary approach. However, there is a paucity of actionable therapeutic or salvage systemic options. Thus, there is an urgent need to expand knowledge on the genomic and molecular landscape of PSCC, as well as increase the awareness of current trials and research on therapeutic paradigms for PSCC. In addition, the impact of PSCC on the quality of life of survivors and their family needs to be examined further. With this Special Issue, we hope to provide a comprehensive and contemporary review on current management strategies for this rare disease.     

Dr. Juan J. Chipollini
Dr. Ahmet Murat Aydin
Guest Editors

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Published Papers (4 papers)

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Review

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15 pages, 5500 KiB  
Review
Minimally Invasive Management of Inguinal Lymph Nodes in Penile Cancer: Recent Progress and Remaining Challenges
by Ahmet Murat Aydin, Emily Biben, Alice Yu, Nicholas H. Chakiryan, Reza Mehrazin and Philippe E. Spiess
Cancers 2024, 16(17), 2935; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16172935 - 23 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2106
Abstract
The diagnosis of occult inguinal lymph node metastasis in clinically node-negative invasive penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) has remained a challenge, with substantial perioperative complications. The recent refinements in the technique of dynamic sentinel lymph node biopsy (DSLNB) demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy with [...] Read more.
The diagnosis of occult inguinal lymph node metastasis in clinically node-negative invasive penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) has remained a challenge, with substantial perioperative complications. The recent refinements in the technique of dynamic sentinel lymph node biopsy (DSLNB) demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy with considerably lower morbidity compared to conventional open modified/superficial inguinal lymph node dissection (ILND). Although DSLNB, if available, has been endorsed as the preferred method for nodal staging in patients with invasive PSCC and no palpable inguinal lymphadenopathy in the recent penile cancer guidelines, its utilization has been quite limited so far. Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted ILND have emerged as alternatives for nodal staging in this patient population and are shown to improve the rate of wound infections and postoperative pain. For management of nodal metastasis in patients with clinically palpable inguinal lymph nodes, minimally invasive ILND has shown promising results as well. Nonetheless, given the rarity of PSCC and the absence of prospective studies and clinical trials, nodal staging and treatment of nodal metastasis in clinical practice will likely continue to vary across the medical centers in the following years. In this review, we first summarize the evolution of DSLNB and minimally invasive ILND and discuss the advantages and drawbacks of each management strategy. We further discuss the remaining challenges and future perspectives in the management of inguinal lymph nodes in patients with PSCC. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Current Progress in Penile Cancer)
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14 pages, 581 KiB  
Review
Local Therapy and Reconstruction in Penile Cancer: A Review
by David Zekan, Rebecca Praetzel, Adam Luchey and Ali Hajiran
Cancers 2024, 16(15), 2704; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16152704 - 30 Jul 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1814
Abstract
Local therapy for penile cancer provides robust survival and can preserve the penis functionally and cosmetically. Interventions must target the appropriate clinical stage. We reviewed studies regarding the primary therapy in penile cancer, from topical therapy to radical penectomy, and reconstructive techniques. Topical [...] Read more.
Local therapy for penile cancer provides robust survival and can preserve the penis functionally and cosmetically. Interventions must target the appropriate clinical stage. We reviewed studies regarding the primary therapy in penile cancer, from topical therapy to radical penectomy, and reconstructive techniques. Topical therapy (5-FU or Imiquimod) provides a robust oncologic response in patients with Ta or Tis disease. Multiple laser therapies are available for localized patients and those with low-grade T1 disease. There is a non-trivial risk of progression and nodal metastases in poorly selected patients. Wide local excision provides an oncologically sound option in patient with up to T1 disease; less evidence exists for Mohs microsurgery in the setting of penile cancer. Increasingly aggressive approaches include glansectomy and partial/radical penectomy, which provide 5- and 10-year cancer-specific survival rates of over 80%. Meticulous reconstruction is necessary for the durable function of the remaining penis. Preservation of voiding and sexual function occurs via penile skin grafting, glans resurfacing, creation of a functional penile stump, and phalloplasty with a penile implant. Perineal urethrostomy provides an alternative in pathology demanding extensive partial or radical penectomy, and a durable option for seated voiding. Clinical suspicion and timely diagnosis are paramount in terms of management as less-invasive options for earlier-stage disease develop. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Current Progress in Penile Cancer)
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12 pages, 437 KiB  
Review
Improving Quality of Life and Psychosocial Health for Penile Cancer Survivors: A Narrative Review
by Von Marie Torres Irizarry, Irasema Concepcion Paster, Vanessa Ogbuji, D’Andre Marquez Gomez, Kyle Mccormick and Juan Chipollini
Cancers 2024, 16(7), 1309; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16071309 - 28 Mar 2024
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1671
Abstract
Treatment of penile cancer (PC) focuses on organ preservation, employing various surgical and non-surgical approaches. These interventions may lead to disfigurement, impacting patients’ functional outcomes and psychosocial well-being. We reviewed studies related to penile health and PC up to February 2024, limited to [...] Read more.
Treatment of penile cancer (PC) focuses on organ preservation, employing various surgical and non-surgical approaches. These interventions may lead to disfigurement, impacting patients’ functional outcomes and psychosocial well-being. We reviewed studies related to penile health and PC up to February 2024, limited to studies published in English. Studies employing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) assessments have identified a detrimental association between aggressive treatment and overall health status, physical functioning, and relationships. In contrast, organ-sparing demonstrates improved measures related to HRQoL and sexual function. Assessment through validated questionnaires reveals diverse voiding outcomes, and varying impacts on QoL and sexual activity, emphasizing the necessity for multidisciplinary personalized care. Studies highlight substantial variations in sexual function, with patients reporting adaptations, reduced satisfaction, and concerns about body image and sexual well-being. Furthermore, unmet needs include challenges in patient–clinician communication, obtaining information, and accessing psychosocial support. Patient experiences underscore the importance of timely diagnosis, treatment access, and addressing psychological consequences. Organ-sparing approaches have higher QoL preservation and sexual function. Individualized support, including sexual therapy, support groups, and family counseling, is essential for post-treatment rehabilitation. Timely diagnosis and comprehensive care are paramount in addressing the multifaceted impact of PC on patients and families. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Current Progress in Penile Cancer)
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Other

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15 pages, 774 KiB  
Systematic Review
Immunotherapy in the Management of Penile Cancer—A Systematic Review
by Hossein Taghizadeh and Harun Fajkovic
Cancers 2025, 17(5), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17050883 - 4 Mar 2025
Viewed by 823
Abstract
Penile cancer, though a rare malignancy, presents a significant challenge in the domain of male genitourinary oncology, particularly due to its limited treatment options and due to the profound physical and psychological impact on patients [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Current Progress in Penile Cancer)
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