Testicular Cancer Symptoms and First Signs

Testicular cancer can hide undetected for years. Usually the first, of potentially many, testicular cancer symptoms start off as a painless little lump (mass) on the testicle itself with a slight bit of swelling, which is one of the earliest signs. This is the first sign of a potential issue. There are some more clearly identifiable signs of testicular cancer, these signs can include:

Common Testicular Cancer Symptoms:

* A Painless lump ( this should not be confused with the epididymis)

* Swelling ( with or without a lump)

* Pain( Heavy aching in lower abdomen)

**Cancer is considered an extreme cause for the symptoms listed above. These symptoms are typically caused by infection or injury but it is extemely important it see a doctor immediately if you notice any changes in your testicles. These other conditions could still be serious enough to require treatment

Some types of testicular cancer can cause symptoms in other parts of the body. Germ Cell Tumors is a very common form of testicular cancer often characterized by the production of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Production of HCG can cause an increase in the size and sensitivity of a man’s breast. Leydig Cell Tumors are a less common type of testicular cancer which affect the cells which normally make the sex hormones. This type of cancer can produce androgen(male) or estrogen(female) hormones.

Testicular Cancer Exam

Typically, the early symptoms of testicular cancer do not have any pain associated with them. Testicular cancer symptoms are subtle and the early detection is critical for successfull treatment. Testicular Cancer, unlike most cancers, is highly treatable in the early stages. Performing a montly self exam will help you detect abnormalities in your testicals.

Testicular Self Examination
TSE or Testicular Self Examination is a highly recommended way for individuals to check for the occurrence of testicular cancer. The self-exam should be performed monthly after shower when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed. You could perform this by cupping the testicles and checking for any change in sensation from the normal. Next, you place your index and middle finger at one side of your testicle, with the thumb on top. Gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers and check for lumps or masses and changes in size, shape or consistency. Normally, one testicle is bigger than the other and both should be smooth and firm.

Diagnosis
Doctor generally evaluates a man’s overall health condition to find out the cause of the symptom. Doctors may also order physical examination, laboratory and diagnostic tests. This test includes blood test to check for tumor markers, sonogram to show the presence or size of a mass, and Biopsy to determine the presence of cancer.

Treatment
Testicular cancer is a highly curable disease. It can be treated with surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Surgery is done by removing the affected testicle. It may also involve removal of lymph nodes in the abdomen, and tumors that may have spread to the other parts of the body.
Radiation Therapy is done by using high energy rays to damage and stop the growth of cancer cells. This is generally advisable for men with seminomas. In chemotherapy, anti-cancer drugs are administered to patients if a doctor suspect undetected cancer cells still remains in the body. Depending on the patient’s general condition, both treatments may be undertaken as an outpatient.

Management
It is extremely important for affected men to undergo follow up check up to avoid recurrence after testicular cancer treatment. The type and stage of the cancer determines the follow up cancer management procedures the patient will have to undergo. With a great number of patients surviving this disease, like Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong, men should not be afraid to seek medical help at the first signs of testicular cancer.

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