BACKGROUND: Primary urethral cancer in males is a rare entity with only approximately 800 cases described, which is why it is difficult to formulate evidence-based guidelines for treatment.
For tumors in the pT2 stage with a localization distal to the membranous urethra, a penis-preserving operation can be carried out.
METHODS: In the period from November 2006 to February 2014 a total of 4 patients with primary urethral cancer underwent a penis-preserving urethral resection. The tumor characteristics and treatment results were collated retrospectively.
RESULTS: Of the four patients one had a transitional cell carcinoma of the mid-penile urethra in stage pT2 G2. In two out of the four patients a squamous cell carcinoma (PEC) was present in the mid-penile urethra in stages pT2 G2 and pT2 G3, respectively, with concomitant carcinoma in situ (CIS). The fourth patient had a PEC of the fossa terminalis in stage pT2 G2. Initially all patients underwent a penis-preserving resection. In one case, despite an initial R0 resection a local recurrence occurred and a complete penectomy was performed. Irradiation and lymphadenectomy were not carried out. At a mean follow-up of 37 months all patients are currently in complete remission.
CONCLUSION: Primary penile urethral cancer can be treated by a penis-preserving operation. Close follow-up is essential because recurrence can arise despite an initial R0 resection.
Written by:
Maek M. Are you the author?
Kliniken Essen-Mitte, Henricistraße 92, 45136, Essen, Deutschland.
Reference: Urologe A. 2014 Oct 3. Epub ahead of print.
doi: 10.1007/s00120-014-3583-4
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 25272986
Article in German.