The Main Genetic-Molecular Aspects of Penile Cancer

Penile cancer, while relatively rare compared to other male malignancies, has seen an increased global incidence, with 36,068 new cases reported in 2020. This condition primarily affects regions with low human development indexes, notably India, China and Brazil. The mainstay of treatment is often partial or total penectomy, which has a profound impact on patients' emotional and social lives. Due to limited options for early diagnosis, non-surgical treatments, restricted healthcare funding and the negative consequences of mutilating surgeries, penile cancer is often considered a neglected disease. Penile cancer exhibits various histological types, but penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most prevalent, accounting for 95% of cases worldwide. Multiple risk factors are associated with this condition, largely tied to lifestyle behaviors, such as promiscuous sexual behavior, zoophilia, poor hygiene, phototherapy, smoking and obesity. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a significant etiological factor, particularly in squamous cell carcinomas. The prevalence of HPV in penile neoplasia varies widely, and its association with mortality remains uncertain.