The two oval-shaped glands inside the scrotum that produce testosterone and sperm are called testicles, and they can be affected by testicular cancer, a relatively uncommon type of cancer. Testicular cancer is the most prevalent cancer in men aged 15 to 40, despite its rarity. The good news is that, with early diagnosis and treatment, it is very curable, even at advanced stages.
Since many young men are not aware of the risk, symptoms, or significance of self-examination, it is imperative that awareness regarding testicular cancer be increased.
Testicular cancers are classified primarily into two categories based on the type of cells involved:
Knowing the exact type aids in choosing the best course of action and forecasting how the cancer will behave.
While testicular cancer can affect anyone with testicles, certain risk factors may increase susceptibility:
However, many patients have no identifiable risk factors. Lifestyle or diet is not known to play a major role.
The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a painless lump or swelling in the testicle. Other warning signs may include:
Because it often causes no pain, many men ignore early signs. That’s why monthly self-examination is strongly recommended.
When a man notices any unusual change in the testicles, he should see a healthcare provider without delay. Diagnosis involves:
An orchidectomy, or removal of the testicle, is a diagnostic and therapeutic procedure when a tumor is suspected. Because of the possibility of cancer cells spreading, biopsies are typically avoided.
CT scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis are used for staging in order to look for spread, particularly to the lymph nodes or lungs.
The three stages of testicular cancer are Stage I (confined to the testicle) and Stage III (spread to distant organs like the liver or lungs). Thankfully, the majority of cases are identified early and have excellent treatment outcomes.
The type (seminoma vs. non-seminoma), stage, tumor markers, and patient fertility objectives all influence the course of treatment. The best results come from a multidisciplinary approach.
Used for patients with high-risk characteristics or advanced disease. BEP (Bleomycin, Etoposide, Cisplatin) is a common regimen. The majority of patients can achieve long-term remission and tolerate chemotherapy well.
Mostly applied to seminomas, which are extremely sensitive to radiation. Because there are now more effective chemotherapy alternatives, it is less common in practice.
After surgery, in low-risk Stage I cases, active surveillance with routine blood tests and scans may be preferred over immediate chemotherapy or radiation.
Young men who receive a cancer diagnosis may experience physical and emotional difficulties, particularly in relation to masculinity and fertility. It's critical to understand:
Patients can manage treatment and recuperation with the assistance of fertility specialists, counselors, and oncologists.
Testicular cancer is one of the most curable solid cancers.
Most patients return to normal life, careers, and fatherhood after completing therapy.
All men, especially between ages 15 and 40, should perform a monthly testicular self-exam:
Early detection can mean simpler treatment and complete cure.
A doctor should be consulted right away if there is any change, pain, or lump in the testicles. Complex treatments and more advanced disease can result from a delay in evaluation.
Testicular cancers are diagnosed and treated by medical oncologist Dr. Amit Badola, who specializes in long-term surveillance and chemotherapy management. His interdisciplinary approach guarantees that every patient receives customized care that takes into account their mental and physical health.
