Testicular Cancer

Causes

• Abnormal Testicle Development: Certain conditions affecting testicle development,
  such as cryptorchidism (undescended testicle), increase the risk.
• Family History: Having a father or brother with testicular cancer increases the risk.
• Genetic Factors: Inherited genetic conditions, such as Klinefelter syndrome, may
  increase the risk.
• Age: Testicular cancer is most common in young and middle-aged men, with the highest
  risk between the ages of 15 and 40.
• Race/Ethnicity: White men have a higher risk of testicular cancer compared to men of
  other races.

Symptoms

• Lump or Swelling: A painless lump or swelling in one or both testicles is often the first
  noticeable symptom.
• Pain or Discomfort: Pain or discomfort in the testicle, scrotum, groin, or lower
  abdomen.
• Heaviness in the Scrotum: Feeling of heaviness or aching in the scrotum.
• Enlarged Testicle: One testicle may become larger or firmer than the other.
• Back Pain: Pain in the lower back, especially if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes
  or other parts of the body.

Diagnosis

• Physical Examination: A healthcare provider examines the testicles, scrotum, groin, and
  abdomen for lumps or other abnormalities.
• Ultrasound: Imaging test using sound waves to visualize the testicles and detect tumors.
• Blood Tests: Testing for tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), beta-human
  chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).
• Biopsy: Removal of a sample of testicular tissue for examination under a microscope to
  confirm cancer.

Treatment

• Orchiectomy: Surgical removal of the affected testicle.
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams to kill cancer cells, used after surgery to target
  remaining cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs to kill cancer cells, used if the cancer has spread beyond the
  testicles.
• Surveillance: Close monitoring with regular check-ups, blood tests, and imaging scans to
  detect any recurrence or spread of cancer.

Prevention

• Self-Examination: Performing regular testicular self-exams to check for lumps or other
  abnormalities.
• Protective Cup Use: Using a protective cup during sports or activities that pose a risk of
  testicular injury.
• Early Detection: Seeking prompt medical evaluation for any unusual symptoms or
  changes in the testicles.
• Regular Medical Check-ups: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider for early
  detection and treatment of testicular cancer.