Testicular Cancer

• Overview 
  • The testes are paired organs in the male body that produce sperm for reproduction and testosterone for male development. Testicular cancer is malignant growth of cells within the testicles. 
  • Testicular cancer is relatively rare. It most often affects men between the ages of 15-45. Testicular cancer has a high cure rate, which is even higher when detected in its early stages. 
• Risk factors
  • There is no de facto cause of testicular cancer. Risk factors include family history, certain genetic conditions, history of undescended testicles as a child. 
• Signs/symptoms
  • The most common sign of a testicular cancer is a lump or change in shape in one or both of the testicles. 
• Diagnosis
  • If your doctor notes a testicular mass or lesion, he/she will evaluate this with the following:
    • Blood work – certain testicular cancers make proteins that can be detected in the blood. 
    • Ultrasound – scrotal ultrasound gives the best image of the testicles and adjacent structures
    • Chest X-ray and CT abdomen – evaluate for spread of testicular cancer to other parts of the body
• Treatment
  • Radical orchiectomy – removal of the tumor, testicle, and part of the spermatic cord. This is performed in nearly every patient with a testicular mass
  • Depending on the pathologic findings of the testicular cancer, additional treatment options include:
    • Surveillance – for early stage cancers, patients can be closely observed for recurrence with check-ups, blood work, and imaging studies
    • Chemotherapy – toxic medications treat cancer that has spread to other parts of the body
    • Radiation therapy – high dose X-rays destroy cancer that has spread beyond the testicles
    • Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection – surgical removal of the lymph nodes that drain the testicles

Are you looking for information about testicular cancer in Twin Falls, Idaho? The specialists at Magic Valley Urology can help you. Call 208-733-3404 for an appointment.