Testicular Cancer - Types, Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Testicular cancer refers to dangerous malignant tumors. It most commonly occurs in men between the ages of 16 and 27. The cause of the disease may be undescended testicles or frequent infections. Regular self-examination is crucial to avoid serious consequences. Treatment for testicular cancer most often involves the removal of the testicle, lymph nodes, or the initiation of appropriate chemotherapy. There are several types of testicular cancer. The most common testicular tumor is a seminoma, which occurs in men between the ages of 25 and 45. There are many causes for this disease, and it is also linked to heredity.

Types and Causes of Testicular Cancer

There are several types of testicular cancer. We categorize them based on the type of cells from which the abnormal tumor growth originates. The most common testicular cancer is a seminoma, which originates from the cells responsible for sperm production. It occurs in men aged 25 to 45.

In addition to seminoma, we also distinguish three other testicular tumors:

• teratoma,
• choriocarcinoma,
• embryonal carcinoma.

The most important factors that promote the development of testicular cancer include:

• recurrent infections - resulting in inflammation of the testes and epididymis. Orchitis (inflammation of the testicle) occurring in young boys can be a complication of the mumps. Such an infection should never be ignored, as it significantly increases the risk of the disease. One should not be ashamed, but rather ensure proper treatment,

• inguinal hernia - the risk is increased in individuals who have undergone hernia surgery,

• genetic predisposition - if there has been a history of testicular cancer in the family,

• testicular tumors appear more frequently in men whose mothers were over 35 years old at the time of delivery,

• congenital genetic defects such as androgen insensitivity syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome.

Symptoms and Treatment of Testicular Cancer

The first factor that should prompt an examination is a palpable hard lump in the testicle. In addition, swelling and fluid within the scrotum may occur. This creates a feeling of heaviness and pressure in the testicular area. In the case of testicular cancer, the first symptoms may sometimes be indicators of metastasis.

The most common early symptoms that may indicate the existence of testicular cancer include:

• abdominal pain,

• a lump in the supraclavicular area,

• gynecomastia, which is increased breast growth in men,

• hemoptysis (coughing up blood),

• enlarged lymph nodes in the retroperitoneal space,

• back pain.

How to Detect and Treat Testicular Cancer?

Treatment for testicular cancer should begin as early as possible because the effectiveness of the treatment depends on early diagnosis. It is worth performing regular self-examinations during baths or hygiene routines. If you notice an enlarged, hard, lumpy, or heavy testicle, you should immediately consult an appropriate specialist. In this case, you should visit a urologist. It must be remembered that the earlier treatment begins, the greater the patient's chances of survival.

Tests that can be performed to detect testicular cancer include:

• blood tests aimed at detecting tumor markers,

• ultrasound (USG) of the testicles and abdomen,

• computed tomography (CT) of the chest.