Penile cancer affects the part of the male reproductive system called the penis. There are two types of tissue found on the penis, and both are susceptible to getting this disease. Fortunately, there are treatments available for penile cancer.
Surgery
Surgery is very common with this type of cancer. A surgeon may cut out the tumor, use a laser to remove the tumor or remove the entire penis. The type of surgery used may depend on the stage of the cancer.
Radiation Therapy
A patient may be given high-energy radiation externally to kill cancer cells. He may also be given radiation directly through wires or an IV, which goes straight to the cancer cells.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be used in conjunction with surgery. Drugs are given to the patient that kill or stop the growth of cancer cells.
Cryotherapy
A doctor may use cryosurgery, which freezes and kills any abnormal cells. This is also called cryotherapy.
Radiosensitizers
Radiosensitizers are drugs that are supposed to make cancer cells more sensitive to radiation therapy. When radiosensitizers are combined with radiation therapy, the hope is that more cancer cells will be destroyed.
