Secondary involvement of the penis by rectal cancer

Abstract

Two cases of metastasis to the penis from a primary rectal carcinoma are described. The clinical features, treatment and prognosis together with the probable modes of metastasis are discussed. All previously reported cases of penile metastasis from the rectum are reviewed. It is suggested that contrary to previous reports that prognosis is not uniformly poor and hence a more aggressive attitude to treatment should be adopted. Metastatic lesions in the penis should also be considered as a cause of urinary obstruction following abdominoperineal excision of the rectum.

Penile Metastasis from Rectal Carcinoma: Case Report and Review of the Literature

“…Despite its rich vascular supply and its proximity to the rectum, bladder, and prostate, which are common sites of malignancy, metastatic involvement of the penis is rare [3]. In our review, we found that penile metastases from rectal cancer usually present on average 37 months after the treatment of the primary tumour.…”

Metachronous metastasis to the penis from carcinoma of the rectum

“…7 Penile metastases usually present on average 13 months after diagnosis of primary tumor and two-thirds have disseminated metastases at presentation. 1,2 The most common presenting symptoms in order are difficulty voiding, perineal pain, asymptomatic nodule and priapism.…”

A Case Report and Review of the Literature of Penile Metastasis From Rectal Cancer

“…Moreover, sufficient blood flow of the penis is ensured by an abundant amount of vascular structures ( 71 ). However, despite these factors, metastatic involvement of the penis is extremely rare ( 14 , 65 , 72 , 73 ). So far, only 72 cases have been described in the literature ( Table 1 ).…”