Erythroplasia of Queyrat

Answer 1

Definition

Erythroplasia of Queyrat is an early form of skin cancer found on the penis. The cancer is called squamous cell carcinoma in situ.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The condition is typically found in men who have not had the foreskin of the penis surgically removed (circumcision).

Symptoms

The main symptoms are a red rash and irritation on the tip of the penis.

Treatment

Erythroplasia of Queyrat is usually treated with creams such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil, which are used for several weeks to months. It does not respond to anti-inflammatory creams, such as topical steroids.

This condition is sometimes treated with medicines taken by mouth, including chemotherapy drugs and medicines that change the body's immune response.

More aggressive forms of the disease may require surgery, usually microscopic shaving (Mohs surgery).

References

Pettaway CA, Lynch DF Jr, Davis JW. Tumors of the penis. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 31.

Premalignant and malignant nonmelanoma skin tumors. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 21.

Answer 2

Definition

Erythroplasia of Queyrat is an early form of skin cancer found on the penis. The cancer is called squamous cell carcinoma in situ.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

The condition is most often seen in men who have not been circumcised. It is linked to the human papilloma virus (HPV).

Symptoms

The main symptoms are a red rash and irritation on the tip of the penis.

Treatment

Your doctor or nurse will examine the penis. Treatment may include:

• Skin creams such as imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil, which are used for several weeks to months
• Anti-inflammatory (steroid) creams, if other medicines do not work

If skin creams do not work, your doctor may recommend mohs micrographic surgery or laser surgery.

References

Pettaway CA, Lynch DF Jr, Davis JW. Tumors of the penis. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 31.

Premalignant and malignant nonmelanoma skin tumors. In: Habif TP, ed. Clinical Dermatology. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 21.

Reviewed By

Review Date: 11/22/2011

Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.