Testicular cancer is a form of cancer characterized by the presence of malignant growths in the testicles, a pair of glands located in the scrotum. The testicles produce sperm cells and the male hormone testosterone. In testicular cancer, abnormal cell growth is caused by damage or mutation in one or both of the testicles. The abnormal cells grow in size and number and clump together to form a tumor. Germ cell tumors are mutations that begin in the germ cells. They are classified as non-seminomatous or seminomatous tumors according to their appearance. The first kind are more aggressive while the latter grow at slower rates.
Testicular Cancer Signs and Symptoms
The most common signs include a painless lump in the testicles and swelling. Regular palpation of the testicles is important even in men who have no signs and symptoms since this is the only way to identify lumps that could be malignant. Regular visits to the urologist will help in the detection of this cancer.
Treatment Options
Radiation therapy is one of the most common modes of treatment for prostrate cancer, especially for cancers caused by the less aggressive seminomatous tumors. Other options include surgery and chemotherapy. A radical inguinal orchiectomy is performed to remove the cancerous testicle through the lower abdomen before the incision is closed with sutures or surgical staples. The sample is then analyzed to determine the type of cancer and the type of treatment needed. Chemotherapy is done when there are infected lymph nodes and other affected tissues. However, for severe cases, a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy is preferred in order to ensure the full elimination of the cancer cells.
St Pete Urology in St Petersburg, Florida, can provide more information on this type of cancer as well as treatment options for those diagnosed with the disease.