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Testicular Cancer

What is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in one or both testicles, the organs responsible for sperm and testosterone production. While relatively rare, it is the most common cancer in young men, typically affecting those between ages 15 and 40. Fortunately, testicular cancer is highly treatable, especially when detected early.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing testicular cancer, including:

  • Age – Most commonly affects young and middle-aged men.
  • Undescended Testicle (Cryptorchidism) – Men born with a testicle that didn’t descend naturally are at higher risk.
  • Family History – Having a father or brother with testicular cancer increases risk.
  • Personal History – Men who have had testicular cancer in one testicle are at greater risk of developing it in the other.
  • Race & Ethnicity – More common in Caucasian men compared to other racial groups.

Symptoms

Early detection is key, as testicular cancer may not cause pain in its initial stages. Common symptoms include:

  • A lump or swelling in one testicle (often painless).
  • A feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum.
  • A dull ache or pain in the groin, lower abdomen, or back.
  • Changes in testicle size, shape, or firmness.
  • Sudden fluid buildup in the scrotum.

Treatment

Testicular cancer is highly treatable, even in advanced stages, with a variety of treatment options depending on the type and stage of the disease.

Surgical Removal (Orchiectomy)

  • The primary treatment for testicular cancer involves removing the affected testicle through a minimally invasive procedure.
  • In some cases, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) may be performed to remove cancerous lymph nodes.

Chemotherapy

  • Used for advanced or metastatic testicular cancer.
  • Helps destroy cancer cells that may have spread beyond the testicle.
  • Common chemotherapy drugs include cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin.

Radiation Therapy

  • Used primarily for seminomas, a type of testicular cancer that responds well to radiation.
  • Targets cancer cells in the lymph nodes to prevent recurrence.

Prevention & Self-Exams

While testicular cancer cannot always be prevented, early detection through self-exams is essential.

How to Perform a Monthly Testicular Self-Exam:

  • Best time: Perform after a warm shower when the scrotum is relaxed.
  • Check each testicle separately: Gently roll it between your fingers and thumb.
  • Look for lumps, swelling, or changes in size.
  • Note any discomfort or pain.
  • If you notice any abnormalities, consult a doctor immediately.

Since testicular cancer is highly curable when caught early, regular self-exams and routine medical checkups are key to early detection and successful treatment. If you experience any symptoms, consult a urology specialist promptly.