Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that affects the testicles, which are the male reproductive organs responsible for producing sperm and hormones, particularly testosterone. It is relatively rare compared to other types of cancer but is the most common cancer in young men aged 15 to 35.
Types:
Testicular cancer primarily consists of two main types:
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Germ Cell Tumors: These arise from the sperm-producing cells and can be further divided into two subtypes:
- Seminoma: Slower-growing tumors that usually occur in men aged 25 to 45.
- Non-Seminoma: These tumors can be more aggressive and include subtypes like embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumor, teratoma, and choriocarcinoma.
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Stromal Tumors: These are rarer and arise from the supportive tissue around the testicles, such as Leydig cells or Sertoli cells.
Symptoms:
Common symptoms of testicular cancer may include:
- A lump or swelling in one testicle, which may or may not be painful.
- An increase in the size of one testicle.
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
- Pain in the lower abdomen or back.
- Changes in breast tissue, such as tenderness or enlargement (due to hormonal changes).
Risk Factors:
Several factors may increase the risk of developing testicular cancer:
- Age: Most common in young men (ages 15-35).
- Family history: A personal or family history of testicular cancer may increase risk.
- Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism): Men who have had this condition are at a higher risk.
- Previous testicular cancer: Having had cancer in one testicle increases the risk of cancer in the other.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical examination: A doctor checks for lumps or swelling.
- Ultrasound: Imaging tests can help visualize abnormalities in the testicle.
- Blood tests: Markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) can indicate the presence of testicular cancer.
- Biopsy: Though not typically performed first due to the risk of spreading cancer cells, it may be necessary in certain situations.
Treatment:
Treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer and may include:
- Surgery: Orchiectomy, the surgical removal of one or both testicles.
- Chemotherapy: Often used for non-seminoma tumors or when cancer has spread.
- Radiation therapy: More commonly used for seminomas after surgery.
- Surveillance: For some low-risk patients, close monitoring without immediate treatment may be an option.
Prognosis:
Testicular cancer is highly treatable and has a good prognosis, especially when detected early. The survival rate varies based on the type and stage at diagnosis but overall, many men can be cured of the disease.
Follow-Up:
Regular follow-up care after treatment is crucial to monitor for recurrence and manage any long-term side effects of treatment.
In summary, testicular cancer is a treatable malignancy impacting young men, and early detection coupled with appropriate care results in high survival rates.