What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Penile Superficial Angiomyxoma

What is Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis? (Definition/Background Information)

• Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis is a rare, benign tumor located in the skin or mucosal surface of the penis, with subcutaneous tissue involvement. It is mostly found in adult males
• There are no clearly established risk factors for Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis and the cause of tumor formation is also unknown
• The tumor appears as a well-defined polyp and is not aggressive, unlike aggressive angiomyxomas that can invade surrounding areas and destroy adjoining structures and organs
• No significant signs and symptoms or complications are typically noted, if the tumors are small-sized. However, in some cases, the tumor is known to recur following an incomplete surgical excision and removal of the superficial angiomyxoma
• The treatment of choice is a surgical removal of the entire tumor for large-sized tumors. The prognosis of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis is excellent with appropriate treatment, since it is a benign tumor

Who gets Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis is seen to occur in adult males
• In general, superficial angiomyxomas of skin may be found in a wider age range of individuals
• There is no geographical, racial, or ethnic preference noticed

What are the Risk Factors for Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis? (Predisposing Factors)

• No specific risk factors are evident or identified for Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis
• However, some cases of cutaneous superficial angiomyxoma are seen to occur against a background of Carney complex (which is a genetic disorder)

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis development is unknown
• In general, superficial angiomyxoma of skin (which is the more common type of angiomyxoma), is associated with Carney complex (an autosomal dominant genetic disorder)

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis?

The signs and symptoms of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis include:

• Superficial angiomyxomas are slow-growing masses that involve the skin and subcutaneous tissues below the skin
• The tumor size is mostly below 5 cm, though some may grow to larger sizes
• Most of the tumors appear as well-defined, painless masses shaped like a polyp
• There may be pain during sexual intercourse
• Large tumors may cause urination difficulties

How is Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis Diagnosed?

Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis diagnosis may involve the following tools:

• Evaluation of the individual’s medical history and a thorough physical (pelvic) examination
• Examination of the skin by a dermatologist using a special magnified lens (dermoscopy)
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Radiological studies, such as ultrasound scan, CT and MRI scans, to determine the extent of tumor spread

Tissue biopsy:

• A tissue biopsy of the tumor is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. A pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis. Examination of the biopsy under a microscope by a pathologist is considered to be gold standard in arriving at a conclusive diagnosis
• Biopsy specimens are studied initially using Hematoxylin and Eosin staining. The pathologist then decides on additional studies depending on the clinical situation
• Sometimes, the pathologist may perform special studies, which may include immunohistochemical stains, molecular testing, and very rarely, electron microscopic studies to assist in the diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis?

The possible complications of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis may include:

• Emotional stress and concern, especially associated with tumors in the genital region
• Superficial tumors may present cosmetic concerns
• Tumor recurrence following surgery is known to take place (due to their incomplete removal)
• Damage of vital nerves, blood vessels, and surrounding structures, during surgery to remove the tumors
• Post-surgical infection at the wound site is a potential complication

Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis is not an aggressive tumor and it does not destroy the adjacent tissue structures, unlike its aggressive counterpart.

How is Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis Treated?

Following are the treatment methods adopted for Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis:

• The healthcare provider may recommend a ‘wait and watch’ approach for small-sized tumors presenting mild signs and symptoms, after a diagnosis of superficial angiomyxoma has been established
• Surgical intervention with complete excision can result in a complete cure, and also eliminate the chances of tumor recurrence
• Post-operative care is important: Minimum activity level is to be ensured until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important, since the tumor can recur in some cases

How can Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis be Prevented?

• Current medical research has not established a way of preventing Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis
• Medical screening at regular intervals with scans and physical examinations are advised

What is the Prognosis of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis is generally excellent on surgical excision and removal of the tumor, since it is a benign tumor
• Periodic follow-up check-ups with screening are advised

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Superficial Angiomyxoma of Penis:

Please visit our Cancer & Benign Tumor Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/