Is my penis sensitive to touch due to penile cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

For the last couple of weeks, my penis has been very sore (it might have lasted even longer, but as of now it is more painful). The glans penis has become very sensitive to touch and when it comes in contact with my underwear while I move or walk it hurts. It is like a burning sensation I have almost all the time but gets worse with touch. I also have redness on the glans. Does it look like penile cancer? I have included pictures here. I have not had sex for the last six months if that is relevant. I do not use any medications either.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query. I am sorry for such discomfort you are having.

I saw the files you have attached (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity).

There is swelling of the corona of the penis or penis crown. On the glans penis, very mild swelling and mild redness are noted which is the reason for the soreness and increased sensitivity to the touch. The foreskin is easily retracted and there is no discharge collection under the foreskin.

Definitely, it is not penile cancer about which you are worried. It does not occur at this age, and it has different clinical presentations and manifestations.

Most likely, by looking at the picture I think it is balanitis. Balanitis is the inflammation of the glans penis. Most often it is caused by a fungal infection. However, other reasons are also possible like an allergic reaction to latex condoms, sexually transmitted infections (STI), etc.

Is there any unusual penile discharge?

Any painful micturition?

Any foul smell from the penis?

I would suggest you the following:

Apply antifungal cream like Clotrimazole cream 1% twice a day for 10 to 14 days over glans penis and foreskin, suspecting it to be caused by a fungal infection.
Apply 1% Hydrocortisone once daily for seven days to reduce inflammation and soreness, if it is due to some irritant allergy.
Maintain good hygiene in the area by taking bath and keeping it dry thoroughly, to prevent any moisture in the penile area.

Please reply to the above questions and follow up, if you have any further queries about it.

Hope you find my reply helpful.

Thanks.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Have you started applying the above-suggested ointment?

Foul-smelling suggests some infection that could cause balanitis.

Apply the above-suggested ointment for two weeks at least and you can expect improvement in the condition. You can continue the application of ointment further also if symptoms are clearing away.

I will follow up with you after one week and do let me know the response to the treatment.

Maintain adequate hydration.

Please follow up for further queries and I will try my best to guide you better.

Thanks.