Testicular cancer is one of the most prevalent solid organ tumours among young men, especially in those between the ages of 15 and 40 years. It accounts for only a small proportion of all malignancies in males, although it occurs in the most productive years of life. The good news is that

Testicular cancer is one of the most prevalent solid organ tumours among young men, especially in those between the ages of 15 and 40 years. It accounts for only a small proportion of all malignancies in males, although it occurs in the most productive years of life. The good news is that

Testicular cancer is one of the most prevalent solid organ tumours among young men, especially in those between the ages of 15 and 40 years. It accounts for only a small proportion of all malignancies in males, although it occurs in the most productive years of life. The good news is that

Testicular cancer is one of the most prevalent solid organ tumours among young men, especially in those between the ages of 15 and 40 years. It accounts for only a small proportion of all malignancies in males, although it occurs in the most productive years of life.

The good news is that testicular cancer is also one of the most treatable tumours, especially when detected early. But sometimes identification is delayed due to lack of knowledge, embarrassment of disclosing symptoms, and the false impression that a painless lump cannot be a tumour.

What are the symptoms of testicular cancer?

The most common indicator of testicular cancer is a painless lump, swelling, or enlargement of one testicle. Sometimes, one testicle may feel larger, tougher or different than the other. There could also be a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum or a change in the usual feeling of the testicle. Any new change in the testicular size/consitency or sensation should be checked out by a healthcare provider promptly.

If the disease is diagnosed early, the prognosis may be great. However, if left untreated, the cancer can spread through the lymphatic channels and bloodstream to other regions of the body, most often to the lymph nodes and lungs.

Later stages of the cancer can include chronic back pain, unexplained weight loss, persistent cough, chest pain or shortness of breath. These symptoms are less prevalent and indicate the need for an awareness of the condition before it worsens.

Who is at risk?

Factors that can raise the risk of testicular cancer include: Men having a history of undescended testis (cryptorchidism), a previous history of testicular cancer, or a significant family history of the disease are at higher risk. These are known risk factors; however, the specific cause of most testicular tumours is unknown.

How is testicular cancer diagnosed?

The diagnosis usually starts with a complete clinical examination, followed by scrotal ultrasonography and measurement of serum tumour markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).

If a testicular tumour is suspected, a high inguinal orchiectomy is performed. This procedure is the first step in treatment and also serves to validate the diagnosis.

Depending on the type and stage of the tumour, further treatment such as chemotherapy may be needed. Fortunately, most patients are young and otherwise healthy and modern chemotherapy regimens are often well tolerated. For early-stage testicular cancer, cure rates of above 90 per cent are reported in trials.

Importance of awareness

Regular self-awareness of the testicles is important for early detection. Men should know what their testicles normally look and feel like and should seek medical assistance if they discover any new lump, stiffness, swelling or change in size. A simple inspection and consultation at the right moment might provide you peace of mind or prompt treatment if necessary.

The lesson is clear: don’t overlook a change in your testicle, even if it doesn’t hurt. The best weapons against testicular cancer continue to be awareness, early evaluation and early treatment.

(The author is a uro-oncology robotic surgery and renal transplantation consultant at Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Bengaluru)

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of THE WEEK.

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