Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that affects the male reproductive organs, the testicles, which produce sperm and testosterone. Testicular cancer is relatively rare, but it is the most common cancer among men aged 15 to 45. Testicular cancer can be treated easily and is curable if caught early enough.
The exact cause of testicular cancer is unknown, but some factors may increase the risk of developing it. These include:
Having an undescended testicle, which means one or both testicles did not move down into the scrotum before birth
Having a family history of testicular cancer or certain genetic conditions, such as Klinefelter syndrome
Having a previous history of testicular cancer or abnormal development of the testicles
Being of white or Scandinavian descent
The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a painless lump or swelling in one or both testicles. Other possible symptoms include:
A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum or lower abdomen
A change in the size or shape of the testicles
Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts
Back pain or shortness of breath, which may indicate the cancer has spread to other organs
Some of these symptoms may also be caused by other conditions, such as infections, injuries, or benign tumors. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor if you notice any changes in your testicles or experience any unusual symptoms.
A doctor will examine your testicles and scrotum and ask about your medical history and symptoms in order to diagnose testicular cancer. You may also need some tests, such as:
An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the testicles and check for any lumps or abnormalities
A blood test, which measures the levels of certain proteins called tumor markers that are produced by some testicular cancer cells
A surgery, which involves removing the affected testicle and sending it to a laboratory for further analysis
If testicular cancer is confirmed, your doctor will also determine the stage of the cancer, which indicates how far it has spread and how aggressive it is. The main stages of testicular cancer are:
Stage I: The cancer is limited to the testicle and has not spread to the lymph nodes or other organs
Stage II: The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes in the abdomen or pelvis, but not to other organs
Stage III: The cancer has spread to other organs, such as the lungs, liver, or brain
The treatment of testicular cancer depends on the type, stage, and grade of the cancer, as well as your overall health and preferences. The main treatment options include:
Surgery, which involves removing the affected testicle and sometimes the nearby lymph nodes
Chemotherapy, which uses drugs to kill the cancer cells or stop them from growing
Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy rays to destroy the cancer cells or shrink the tumors
Hormone therapy, which helps regulate the hormone levels and prevent the cancer from recurring
It is possible for the treatment to cause side effects, such as infertility, sexual dysfunction, fatigue, nausea, hair loss, or increased risk of infection. Your doctor will discuss the potential benefits and risks of each treatment option with you and help you cope.
There is no sure way to prevent testicular cancer, but some steps may help reduce the risk or detect it early. These include:
Performing regular self-exams of your testicles, which can help you notice any changes or lumps
Seeing a doctor if you have any symptoms or concerns about your testicles
Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals or radiation
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol
It is important to be aware of the symptoms and signs of testicular cancer and to seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your testicles. It is a serious but treatable condition that affects the male reproductive organs. An early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival and recovery.
