Malignant priapism secondary to isolated penile metastasis from a renal pelvic carcinoma

Sulai Liu1, Fuhua Zeng2, Lin Qi3

  • 1Department of Urology, Xiangya Hospital, The Central South University, Changsha China; ; Department of Urology, The Affiliated Tumor Hospital of Xiangya Medical School, The Central South University, Changsha, China;

Insights

This study details a rare case of malignant priapism caused by isolated penile metastasis from renal pelvic carcinoma. This finding highlights an unusual presentation of advanced urothelial carcinoma with sarcomatoid differentiation.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Oncology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Renal pelvic carcinoma can metastasize to various sites.
  • Malignant priapism is a rare condition often associated with hematologic malignancies.
  • Penile metastasis from genitourinary cancers is uncommon.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To report the first known case of malignant priapism secondary to isolated penile metastasis from renal pelvic carcinoma.
  • To describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, and histological characteristics of this rare event.

Main Methods:

  • A 69-year-old male patient with a history of renal pelvic carcinoma underwent evaluation for priapism.
  • Physical examination, imaging studies, and surgical intervention (cavernous-glans shunt and nodule resection) were performed.
  • Histopathological examination of the resected penile nodule was conducted.

Main Results:

  • The patient presented with priapism and a palpable penile nodule.
  • Imaging revealed no other metastatic sites.
  • Histology confirmed metastatic urothelial carcinoma with sarcomatoid differentiation in the penile nodule.

Conclusions:

  • Isolated penile metastasis from renal pelvic carcinoma can present as malignant priapism.
  • This case represents a unique and previously undescribed manifestation of advanced urothelial carcinoma.
  • Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for such rare oncological emergencies.