Testicular cancer forms in tissues of the testis (one of two egg-shaped
glands inside the scrotum that make sperm and male hormones). It usually
occurs in young or middle-aged men.
Seminomas
Two main types of testicular cancer are seminomas, or cancers that grow
slowly and are sensitive to radiation therapy and make up about 30% of
all testicular cancers.
Nonseminomas
The other type of testicular cancer is nonseminomas or different cell types
that grow more quickly than seminomas. Nonseminomas include choriocarcinoma,
embryonal carcinoma, teratoma, and yolk sac tumors.
Causes and Risk Factors for Testicular Cancer
The cause of testicular cancer is unknown however; there are several factors
that increase a man’s chance of developing testicular cancer, these include:
Undescended testicle
Abnormal testicular development
Klinefelter syndrome
History of testicular cancer
Most testicular cancers are often found by men themselves.
Signs and Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
Doctors generally examine the testicles during routine physical exams also.
Some of the symptoms of testicular are painless lump or swelling in either
testicle, any enlargement of a testicle or change in the way it feels,
a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the lower abdomen
or the groin, a sudden collection of fluid in scrotum, and pain or discomfort
in a testicle or in the scrotum.
Diagnosis and Testing
If any of these symptoms appear you should see your doctor and he will
evaluate your general health as well as perform a physical exam, ultrasound,
and lab tests. If a tumor is suspected the doctor will order a biopsy
which involves surgery to remove the testicle. If only one testicle remains,
a small incision is made to get tissue from the testicle. Once sample
tissue is obtained it is sent to the lab for a pathologist to review under
a microscope to determine diagnosis. If the diagnosis is testicular cancer
the stage or extent of the disease will have to be determined to plan
appropriate treatment for the patient.
Treatment Options for Testicular Cancer
Most men with testicular cancer can be cured with surgery, radiation therapy,
and/or chemotherapy. Seminomas and nonseminomas grow and spread differently,
and each type may need different treatment. Treatment also depends on
the stage of the cancer, patient’s age, and general health.
Dedicated to Men’s Health and Healing
At Big Horn Basin Regional Cancer Center, we know that a testicular cancer
diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but with early detection and expert care,
the outlook is highly treatable. Our oncology team provides personalized
treatment for all types and stages of testicular cancer, combining advanced
medical therapies with individualized support for every patient.
Contact us today to learn more about testicular cancer treatment options in Cody, WY
.png)
