What is testicular cancer?

Testicular cancer is a cancerous condition that initiates in the testicles, the male reproductive organs accountable for sperm and testosterone production. It is a prevalent form of cancer that frequently affects males in the age range of 15 to 35 years old. Typically, testicular cancer develops in one or both testicles and, if left untreated, can potentially spread to other parts of the body.

What are the symptoms of testicular cancer?

Early detection of testicular cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Some common symptoms include:

• A lump or swelling: The primary indication of testicular cancer is typically a painless lump or swelling in the testicle. The lump may feel firm or solid, and its size can vary.
• Testicular pain or discomfort: Discomfort or a dull ache in the testicles or scrotum may be a sign of testicular cancer. However, not all cases involve pain.
• Changes in testicle size or shape: Noticeable changes in the size, shape, or texture of the testicles may indicate the presence of cancer.
• Heaviness in the scrotum: A feeling of heaviness or a dragging sensation in the scrotum could be a symptom of testicular cancer.
• Back pain or abdominal pain: In advanced stages, testicular cancer may spread to nearby lymph nodes or other organs, leading to back pain or abdominal pain.

What causes testicular cancer?

The precise cause of testicular cancer remains uncertain; however, specific risk factors can heighten the probability of developing the disease. These factors include:

• Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism): Men who have congenital undescended testicles at birth face an increased risk of developing testicular cancer.
• Family history: Having a close relative with testicular cancer increases the risk of developing the disease.
• Age: Testicular cancer is more common in young and middle-aged men, particularly between the ages of 15 and 35.
• Race and ethnicity: White men are at a higher risk of testicular cancer compared to men of other racial and ethnic backgrounds.

How is testicular cancer treated?

The selection of treatment options for testicular cancer is contingent upon the specific type and stage of the disease. The main approaches include:

• Surgery: The primary treatment for testicular cancer is the surgical removal of the affected testicle (radical inguinal orchiectomy). In some cases, lymph nodes in the abdomen may also be removed.
• Radiation therapy: High-energy X-rays or other radiation sources are used to kill cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Chemotherapy: Powerful drugs are administered to destroy cancer Depending on the stage of the cancer, chemotherapy can be administered either before or after surgery.
• Surveillance: In some cases of early-stage testicular cancer, close monitoring may be recommended to observe any changes or recurrence. This approach is known as active surveillance.
• Targeted therapy: This type of treatment involves using drugs that specifically target cancer cells, blocking their growth and spread.

Regular self-examinations of the testicles can aid in the early detection of any abnormalities. If you notice any changes or experience symptoms related to testicular cancer, consult a healthcare professional promptly for proper evaluation and diagnosis.