What is Testicular Cancer?

A malignant tumor that develops in the testicle of a male is considered testicular cancer. The tumors can destroy the testicular tissue and, if not detected early enough, spread into other parts of the body. Testicular cancer is often times detected when a couple is experiencing difficulties conceiving. Up to 2% of male infertility cases are diagnosed with testicular cancer. Dr. Bastuba recommends that men to be aware of the warning signs of testicular cancer.

Symptoms of Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer can have various symptoms. Some of the symptoms men should be aware of are, a lump in one of the testicles, if one of the testicles is enlarged, any pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, testicles or groin area and enlarged or tender breasts. Even though these warning signs are not guaranteed indications for testicular cancer, men should consult a physician if any of these symptoms persist over a 2-week period. The earlier a medical condition like testicular cancer is diagnosed, the lower the risk that it has spread to other parts of the body and therefore the higher the chances of a successful treatment. Testicular cancer occurs in all age groups of men, but most commonly in men between 15 and 34 years of age, which includes prime baby-making years.

Testicular Cancer Self Exam

Dr. Bastuba recommends doing a testicular cancer self-exam about once a month. This can be done after a hot shower or a warm bath when the scrotum is relaxed by the heat. When standing in front of the mirror, examine the skin for any swelling or unusual feel. Take one testicle in both hands and roll it between your fingers to look for any lumps, discomfort or pain. Note that the epididymis feels like a soft tube at the back of the testicle and should not be mistaken for a lump. Most of the lumps indicating testicular cancer are mostly developing at the side or front of the testicle. If you find a suspicious lump, contact your doctor immediately.

Testicular Cancer Diagnosis

Once a lump has been felt in a testicle or any of the other signs noted above then the patient should undergo a scrotal ultrasound. This simple ultrasound is very specific and sensitive in finding testicular cancers. If the ultrasound is suggestive of testicular cancer, then blood testing for testicular cancer tumor markers should be obtained such as alpha-feta protein (A.F.P.) and beta hCG. Also, a chest x-ray and CT Scan (Computed Tomography or CAT Scan) are often times performed.

Testicular Cancer Treatment

Initial treatment includes removal of the effected testicle in a specific way called Radical Inguinal Orchiectomy. This procedure is not disfiguring and indeed often times a testicular prosthesis can be placed at time of the procedure, so that it still feels like that two testicles are present. Following a orchiectomy, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may be required depending on the extend of the initial disease.

The good news is that this is one of the most treatable of all cancers. A case and point is Lance Armstrong, the many time winner of the Tour de France. He had very advanced testicular cancer, which had spread to various areas to his body. Despite the extensive therapy he needed, he’s been cured and in fact went on to win more Tour de France races following his treatments. Indeed, testicular cancer is one of the true success stories of modern day treatments for cancers.

Read also an article in our recent newsletter about fertility work-up.

More information about testicular cancer:

Fertile Hope
Non-profit organisation offering resources to preserve your fertility including financial assistance.
42 W. 24th St.
New York, NY 10010
Ph: 888-994-HOPE
Web: www.fertilehope.org

Association of Cancer Online Resources
Online support site offering information about treatment options, clinical trials and publications.
Web: www.acor.org

Male Fertility Specialists
6699 Alvarado Road, Suite 2207
San Diego, CA 92120
(619) 286-3520

Visit our other websites:
www.vasectomyinfo.com | www.martinbastuba.com