Medical history and physical exam by a doctor. Laboratory studies, such as culture of the tumor discharge, urinalysis and blood tests. Treatment will depend on stage of the cancer. Hospitalization and surgery to remove the tumor. Local tumors of the foreskin may require circumcision only.
Invasive tumors require total removal of the penis and regional lymph nodes.
Radiation therapy may be recommended if the cancer has not spread. Psychotherapy or counseling after surgery to learn to cope with an altered self-image. Many men delay treatment due to denial or fear of disfigurement and loss of sexual function. This increases the likelihood the cancer will spread and cause death. Recurrence remains a possibility after treatment.