CancerICD-10: C62About 9,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the US
Testicular Cancer
Also known as: Testicular germ cell tumor
Testicular cancer develops in one or both testicles and is the most common cancer in young men aged 15 to 35. Despite being relatively rare overall, it is one of the most treatable cancers with a cure rate exceeding 95 percent when detected early. Regular testicular self-examinations can help identify changes early.
Symptoms
Painless lump or swelling in either testicle
Feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
Dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin
Sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
Pain or discomfort in a testicle or scrotum
Enlargement or tenderness of breast tissue
Back pain if cancer has spread
Causes
- Abnormal cell development in the testicle, typically germ cells
- Genetic mutations that are not yet fully understood
- Undescended testicle increasing risk of cancerous changes
Risk Factors
- Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
- Family history of testicular cancer
- Age between 15 and 35 years
- White race
- Personal history of testicular cancer in the other testicle
Diagnosis
- Physical examination of the testicles
- Scrotal ultrasound to visualize the mass
- Blood tests for tumor markers including AFP, beta-hCG, and LDH
- CT scan for staging
- Radical inguinal orchiectomy for definitive diagnosis and treatment
Treatment
- Radical inguinal orchiectomy to remove the affected testicle
- Surveillance with regular follow-up for stage I disease
- Chemotherapy with cisplatin-based regimens
- Radiation therapy primarily for seminomas
- Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection for residual disease
Prevention
- No proven prevention methods
- Monthly testicular self-examinations for early detection
- Surgical correction of undescended testicle in childhood
When to See a Doctor
- Any lump or swelling in a testicle
- Pain, heaviness, or discomfort in the scrotum
- Enlargement of a testicle or change in shape
- Persistent lower abdominal or groin pain
Frequently Asked Questions
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