Summary about Disease
Testicular cancer is a cancer that begins in the testicles, which are located inside the scrotum, a loose bag of skin underneath the penis. The testicles produce male sex hormones and sperm for reproduction. Compared with other types of cancer, testicular cancer is rare. But it is the most common cancer in American males between the ages of 15 and 35. Testicular cancer is highly treatable, even when cancer has spread beyond the testicle. Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer.
Symptoms
A lump or enlargement in either testicle
A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
A dull ache in the abdomen or groin
A sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum
Back pain
Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts (gynecomastia)
Causes
The exact cause of testicular cancer is often unknown. However, factors that may increase the risk include:
Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism): Testicles form in the abdomen and usually descend into the scrotum before birth. Men who have a testicle that never descended are at greater risk.
Abnormal testicle development: Conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome.
Family history: Having a father or brother who has had testicular cancer.
Age: Most common in men between 15 and 35.
Race: More common in white men than in Black men.
Medicine Used
Treatment options for testicular cancer depend on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Common treatments include:
Surgery: Orchiectomy (removal of the testicle) is often the primary treatment. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) may also be performed.
Chemotherapy: Drugs used to kill cancer cells. Common chemotherapy drugs include cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin (BEP regimen). Other regimens exist, depending on the type of cancer.
Radiation therapy: Using high-powered energy beams to kill cancer cells.
Is Communicable
Testicular cancer is not communicable. It is not infectious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no specific precautions that can guarantee prevention of testicular cancer. However, early detection through self-exams and regular medical checkups is crucial. Risk factors, such as undescended testicle, cannot always be avoided.
How long does an outbreak last?
Testicular cancer is not an outbreak or infectious disease. It's a cancer that develops over time. Treatment duration varies greatly depending on the stage and type of cancer, and the chosen treatment approach. Treatment can last from several weeks to months.
How is it diagnosed?
Self-exam: Feeling for lumps or abnormalities in the testicles.
Physical exam: A doctor will examine the testicles and groin area.
Ultrasound: Imaging technique to visualize the testicles.
Blood tests: To measure tumor markers, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).
Inguinal Orchiectomy with pathological examination: Surgical removal of testicle for biopsy.
CT scans and other imaging: To determine if cancer has spread.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary greatly. Some men may notice a lump or other symptom relatively quickly, while others may have a slow and gradual onset of symptoms. Symptoms may be present for weeks or months before a diagnosis is made.
Important Considerations
Early detection is key: Regular self-exams and prompt medical attention for any testicular abnormalities can significantly improve the chances of successful treatment.
Fertility: Treatment can affect fertility. Sperm banking should be considered before starting treatment.
Follow-up care: Regular follow-up appointments are essential after treatment to monitor for recurrence.
Psychological Support: Diagnosis and treatment can be emotionally challenging. Support groups or counseling can be beneficial.