Cancer of the penis

Alternative names:

penile cancer

Definition:

A rare form of cancer, of unknown cause.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Smegma (cheese-like, odorous secretions found under the foreskin of the penis) is believed to be a causative factor, but the exact cause is unknown. Uncircumcised men who do not keep the area under the foreskin clean, and men with a history of genital herpes are at higher risk for this rare disorder.