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For any man, dealing with cancer of the penis is a frightening prospect.
Partial or complete removal of the penis is usually the most effective way to
cure penile cancer, but, not surprisingly, for many men this cure seems worse
than the disease. It is natural for a man facing treatment for penile cancer to
suffer mental distress, depression, and feelings of despair. The better you can
anticipate and prepare for these feelings in advance, the better your quality of
life will be following treatment.
In certain cases, a partial penectomy leaves enough of the organ behind to
allow relatively normal urination. Many men who have undergone a complete
penectomy must sit to urinate.
Men treated with conservative techniques (such as topical chemotherapy, Mohs’ surgery, electrodessication and curettage, laser surgery, and cryosurgery) and some men treated with a partial penectomy retain enough of the penis to achieve an erection sufficient for penetration during sexual intercourse. You and your sexual partner may wish to consider undergoing counseling to help understand the impact of treatment for penile cancer and to explore other approaches to obtaining sexual satisfaction.
Each type of treatment for penile cancer has adverse effects that may last
for a few months. Of course, a penectomy is permanent, but in some cases,
surgical reconstruction of the penis is possible. Soon after radiation
treatment, you may notice patches of skin that are oozing and tender. You may
feel a burning sensation when you urinate. These side effects usually disappear
shortly after treatment stops. Some adverse reactions to radiation that appear
later include changes in skin color, the development of telangiectasia
(web-like blood vessels in the skin), and atrophy (damage) to the mucous
membranes.
In many cases, the function and appearance of the penis gradually return to
normal in the months and years after radiation therapy. In cases where the tumor
has not penetrated beyond the glans, radiation is directed only at the tip of
the organ, so the ability to achieve erections should not be affected. However,
there is a risk that radiation can cause temporary or permanent damage to the
urethra (such as stricture, or narrowing), making it impossible to
urinate normally and requiring surgery to create a new urinary opening.
Other Things to Consider
During and after treatment, you may be able to hasten your recovery and
improve your quality of life by taking an active role. Learn about the benefits
and disadvantages of each of your treatment options and ask questions of your
cancer care team if there is anything you do not understand. Learn about and
look out for side effects of treatment and report these promptly to your cancer
care team so that they can take steps to minimize them and shorten their
duration.
Remember that your body is as unique as your personality and your
fingerprints. Although understanding your cancer's stage and learning about the
effectiveness of your treatment options can help predict what health problems
you may face, no one can say precisely how you will respond to cancer or its
treatment.
You may have special strengths such as a history of excellent nutrition and
physical activity, a strong family support system, or a deep faith. These
strengths may make a difference in how you respond to cancer. In fact,
behavioral scientists have recently found that some people who took advantage of
a social support system, such as a cancer support group, had a better quality of
life. There are experienced professionals in mental health services, social work
services, and pastoral services who may help you cope with your illness.
If you are being treated for cancer, be aware of the battle that is going on
in your body. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy add to the fatigue caused by
the disease itself. Rest as much as you need to so that you will feel better as
time goes on. Exercise once you feel rested enough. Ask your cancer care team
whether your cancer or its treatments might limit your exercise program or other
activities.
You can help in your own recovery from cancer by making healthy lifestyle
choices. If you use tobacco, stop now. Quitting will improve your overall health
and the full return of your sense of smell may help you enjoy a healthy diet
during recovery. If you use alcohol, limit how much you drink. Have no more than
1 or 2 drinks per day. Good nutrition can help you get better after treatment.
Eat a nutritious and balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole
grain foods, and get regular amounts of physical activity.
A cancer diagnosis and its treatment are major life challenges that affect
you and everyone who cares for you. Before you reach the point of feeling
overwhelmed, consider attending a meeting of a local support group. There are
many groups available that provide emotional support, friendship, and
understanding. Your health care team can suggest other organizations that might
help you during your recovery from treatment. If you need individual assistance
in other ways, contact your hospital's social service department or call your
American Cancer Society (1-800-ACS 2345) for help in contacting counselors or
other services in your area.
Revised: 10/22/2004
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