Understanding Testicular Cancer
Definition of Testicular Cancer
Cancer of the Testicle is a malignant germ cell type tumor developing in a male testicle. There are two types of testicular cancer, namely seminomas and nonseminomas. Seminomas account for 40% of testicular cancer occurrence. It is remarkably treatable with radiation therapy. Nonseminomas may exist in the form, or in combination of, teratoma, choriocarcinoma, embryonal carcinoma or yolk sac tumor.
Causes of Testicular Cancer
Cryptorchidism, a condition wherein the testis fails to descend into the scrotum is one of the common risk factor for testicular cancer. The testis can be surgically lowered into the scrotum but the risk for testicular cancer remains.
Another common cause of testicular cancer is Klinefelter’s Syndrome. It is a condition that occurs in males who have an extra X chromosome in the majority of their cells. Some risk factors like HIV, exposure to environmental estrogens have been suggested but have not been scientifically proven.
The practice of self examination of the testicles is highly recommended in order to detect the occurrence at an early stage. Self examination is done after bath by rolling your fingers gently around the testicles and checking for unusual masses.
Incidence of Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer has become the prevailing solid tumor for adult males with ages ranging from 15-35. Young males between ages 25-35 are commonly afflicted with Teratoma, seminoma usually occurs in males ages 30-40.
General Signs and Symptoms
Usually Testicular Cancer presents itself as a lump on one or both of the testes. However, not all testicular lumps are cancer. Some other symptoms include a dull ache or pain in the groin, back lower abdomen and scrotum area. The scrotum generally increases in size and a feeling of heaviness may be noticeable.
Diagnosing Testicular Cancer
Healthcare providers generally require blood tests to check to tumor markers. Among the tumor markers are beta hCG, alkaline phosphatase, alpha feto protein, and lactate dehydrogenase. Sonography is necessary to identify the growth of a tumor, and differentiate it from a cyst. CT scan on the abdomen, chest and pelvic areas are done to investigate for metastases into other areas.
Treatments Available for Testicular Cancer
Radiation therapy is done to patients exhibiting early stages of seminoma. Surgical removal of the entire affected testicle is usually done to abort further staging of the tumor. When the cancer has spread into the lymph nodes, additional surgical treatment is required. The oncologist will then review the patient for assessment and additional treatment. Chemotherapy is done to remove undetected germ cell from the body and lower the possibility of recurrence.
The type and maturity of testicular cancer determines the amount of subsequent treatment necessary. Medical trials are now being done to raise cure rates which are now at about 90%.
Complications Arising from Testicular Cancer
When not detected at an early stage, testicular cancer may spread into the lymph nodes. First in the abdomen, then progresses into the chest and lung areas. Collateral testis tumor may also occur in combination or after treatment has been undertaken.
In: Testicular Cancer · Tagged with: cancer treatments, caused of testicular cancer, signs and symptoms of cancer, Testicular Cancer
