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 the 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.