Overview
Clinical Meaning
Penile cancer is predominantly squamous cell carcinoma ( 95%) arising from the epithelium of the glans, prepuce, or penile shaft.
WHNP
WHNP
Penile cancer is predominantly squamous cell carcinoma (>95%) arising from the epithelium of the glans, prepuce, or penile shaft. HPV types 16 and 18 are implicated in approximately 50% of cases, with viral E6/E7 oncoproteins inactivating p53 and Rb tumor suppressors respectively. Phimosis creates a chronic inflammatory microenvironment beneath the foreskin where smegma accumulation and poor hygiene promote carcinogenesis. Staging follows the TNM system: T1 (subepithelial invasion), T2 (corpus spongiosum/cavernosum), T3 (urethral invasion), T4 (adjacent structures). Inguinal lymph node involvement is the most important prognostic factor, with 5-year survival dropping from 85% (node-negative) to 29% (bilateral nodal disease).
Unlock full lesson + practice questions
4 more sections with scenarios, priorities, and review drills.
Final rapid review before practice
Next study step
Finish the lesson first, then choose a focused activity to apply what you just reviewed.
Continue studying
Sign in to save progress on this lesson.
Unlock the interactive lesson quiz with a plan that includes this WHNP pathway. You can still explore topic-filtered questions from the bank hubs below.