Tests And Next Steps

Main test for penile cancer

You may need more tests to check for penile cancer if a GP refers you to a specialist.

A biopsy is the main test to diagnose penile cancer.

A specialist does this test by taking a small piece of tissue from the affected area. It's done under a local anaesthetic, so you do not feel any pain.

You should be able to go home on the same day.

Find out more

Cancer Research UK: tests for penile cancer

Getting your results

You should get the results of your tests within a few weeks.

You can call the hospital or GP if you're worried. They should be able to update you.

A specialist will explain what the results mean and what will happen next. You may want to bring someone with you for support.

If you're told you have penile cancer

Being told you have penile cancer can feel overwhelming. You may be feeling anxious about what will happen.

You'll be helped through your diagnosis and treatment by a team of specialists.

This team will include a clinical nurse specialist who will be your main point of contact during and after your treatment. You can ask them any questions you may have.

Get support

Macmillan Cancer Support has a free helpline that's open every day from 8am to 8pm.

They're there to listen if you have anything you want to talk about.

Call 0808 808 0000.

Next steps

If you've been told you have penile cancer, you may need more tests.

These tests, along with the tests you've already had, will help the specialists find out the size of the cancer and how far it's spread (called the stage).

You may need:

• scans, like an MRI, CT scan, or PET scan
• a test to see if the lymph glands in your groin have been affected, which can happen with some penile cancers (called a lymph node biopsy)

You may not have all these tests or any of them.

The specialists will use the results of any tests and work with you to decide on the best treatment plan for you.

Find out more

• Cancer Research UK: types and grades of penile cancer

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