The Role of Human Papilloma Virus in Penile Carcinogenesis and Preneoplastic Lesions

Penile cancer is a rare and devastating disease, especially at advanced stages. The etiology of penile cancer is multifactorial with multiple established risk factors including infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Approximately 40% of penile cancers are attributable to HPV, although the literature describing HPV as a prognostic factor is mixed. The pathogenesis of HPV infection as well as vaccination practices may provide valuable therapeutic agents to treat this rare and difficult disease.

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HPV-targeted therapies may play a role in treating local and advanced penile cancer.

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HPV-targeted therapies may play a role in treating local and advanced penile cancer.

Despite the approval and availability of the HPV vaccine for males internationally, there remains a widespread lack of knowledge about HPV-associated diseases and the need for vaccination programs directed at males. In a European study of 900 patients seen for urologic issues, only 51% percent reported knowledge of HPV. Of those who were aware of HPV, only 58.5% were aware that HPV infection is associated with penile cancer and only 36.5% were aware of an available vaccine to prevent these infections. Thus, bridging the gap in public knowledge of HPV acquisition and its association with genitourinary cancers will pave the way for preventative strategies against infection in the future and in turn encourage further education and standardized vaccination practices.

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