[Papules, fungi, protozoa--or cancer? Many skin conditions of the penis can be confirmed with biopsy].

The male genitals can be affected by infections, neoplastic and inflammatory dermatoses. This means that numerous diseases have to be included in differential diagnostic considerations to discriminate premalignant from malignant penile tumors. Basically, penile carcinoma cannot be excluded by clinical examination alone. Apparently clinically benign penile lesions may be the cause of a misdiagnosis persisting of lengthy periods. Therefore, the correct diagnosis should be confirmed by timely biopsy whenever there is a doubt. The identification of known risk factors and the early detection and treatment of all precancerous lesions are indispensable for preventing cancer of the penis.