What is testicular cancer?

Testicular tumors account for 5% of all cancer cases among men. It is easily curable when detected early and has a low mortality rate.

Although rare, it is concerning because it most commonly affects men in their productive years—between the ages of 20 and 40. At this stage, it may be mistaken for or even masked by orchiepididymitis (inflammation of the testicles and epididymis—a duct located behind the testicle that collects and carries sperm), which is usually sexually transmitted.

Symptoms

The most common symptom is the appearance of a hard, usually painless lump, approximately the size of a pea, which can often grow quickly. However, attention should also be paid to other changes, such as an increase or decrease in testicle size, hardening, vague pain in the lower abdomen, back pain, and nipple enlargement or tenderness. If any changes are observed, a doctor—preferably a urologist—should be consulted.

Diagnosis

While testicular cancer is a type of tumor that grows rapidly, with a high rate of tumor cell duplication (leading to fast disease progression), it is also easy to diagnose and has a high cure rate, as it responds well to chemotherapy. The urologist will recommend diagnostic tests, such as a biopsy.

Treatment

Initial treatment is always surgical, where the testicle is exposed for a biopsy (removal of a tissue sample to be examined under a microscope). The result is provided during the surgery. If cancer is confirmed, the testicle is removed. The patient's sexual or reproductive function is not affected, as long as the other testicle is healthy. Talk to your doctor about the need to preserve semen to maintain fertility.

Subsequent treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or clinical monitoring. Additional treatment will depend on further investigation to assess the presence or risk of the disease spreading to other organs.

Einstein's Oncology and Hematology department offers comprehensive care from diagnosis to treatment. Learn more.

Prevention

The development of this type of cancer is associated with a family history among brothers and with cryptorchidism (when the testicle does not descend into the scrotal sac). Since it cannot be prevented, monthly testicular self-exams are recommended. In childhood, it is important for the pediatrician to examine whether the testicles have descended into the scrotal sac normally.

By Einstein Editorial Board