The Truth About Testicular Cancer: Risks and Symptoms

By Midrand Medical Centre

 

Testicular cancer, though relatively rare, is the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 35. Understanding the risks and symptoms can lead to early detection and treatment, significantly improving the prognosis.


Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing testicular cancer:

1.      Age: Most common between ages 15 and 35.

2.      Family History: A family history of testicular cancer increases risk.

3.      Cryptorchidism (Undescended Testicle): Men with a history of undescended testicle(s) are at higher risk.

4.      Race and Ethnicity: More common in white men compared to men of other races.

5.      HIV Infection: Men with HIV, particularly those with AIDS, are at an increased risk.

Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of testicular cancer can lead to early diagnosis and better outcomes. Common symptoms include:

  • Lump or Enlargement in Either Testicle: Often painless, but sometimes associated with discomfort.
  • Feeling of Heaviness in the Scrotum: A sense of fullness or heaviness.
  • Dull Ache in the Abdomen or Groin: Persistent pain or discomfort.
  • Sudden Collection of Fluid in the Scrotum: Rapid fluid buildup.
  • Pain or Discomfort in a Testicle or the Scrotum: Can range from mild to severe.
  • Enlargement or Tenderness of the Breasts: Hormonal changes can cause breast tissue growth or tenderness.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If testicular cancer is suspected, several diagnostic tests and procedures can confirm the diagnosis:

1.      Ultrasound: The primary imaging test to evaluate testicular abnormalities.

2.      Blood Tests: To measure levels of tumour markers like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG).

3.      Orchiectomy: Surgical removal of the affected testicle to confirm diagnosis and prevent the spread of cancer.

Treatment options vary based on the type and stage of cancer and may include:

  • Surgery: Removal of the affected testicle (radical inguinal orchiectomy).
  • Radiation Therapy: Typically used for seminomas.
  • Chemotherapy: Effective for both seminomas and non-seminomas, particularly in advanced stages.
  • Surveillance: Regular monitoring for men with early-stage cancer who opt to avoid immediate further treatment​.

Final Thought

Early detection and treatment of testicular cancer led to high survival rates. Regular self-examinations and awareness of the symptoms are crucial for early diagnosis. If you notice any changes, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Sources

1.      Advances in diagnosis and treatment of testicular cancer - The BMJ​ (BMJ)​

2.      The Latest Testicular Cancer Research: Abstracts + "Beyond the Abstracts" - UroToday​ (UroToday)​

3.      Testicular Cancer: Latest Research - Cancer.Net​ (Cancer.net)​

4.      Testicular cancer with small metastatic burden: optimal approach in 2024 - UroToday​ (UroToday)​

5.      Testicular Cancer Research | Testicular Cancer Latest Research | American Cancer Society​ (CancerInfo)​

6.      Testicular Cancer Treatment (PDQ®) - NCI​ (Comprehensive Cancer Information)​

Location: Midrand, South Africa

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