Squamous cell carcinoma of the penis

A rare urogenital tumor characterized by origin from squamous epithelial cells of the penis, most commonly the glans or inner surface of the prepuce. Macroscopically, the tumors can appear either papillary or flat and ulcerating. Histological subtypes include usual squamous cell carcinoma as the most common type, as well as basaloid, warty, verrucous, papillary, and mixed carcinomas. Patients may initially be asymptomatic but present with itching, bleeding, discharge, foul odor, and pain, as the disease progresses. Regional lymph node involvement is common, while distant metastases occur only late in the disease. Risk factors include HPV infection, smoking, poor hygiene, and HIV infection. Neonatal circumcision is implicated as strongly protective.