If you have ever wondered whether your testicles are cancerous, you are not alone. Most men experience these symptoms at one point or another in their lives. The good news is that there are many ways to tell if you have testicular cancer. Your doctor will be able to perform a number of tests to determine if the condition is indeed cancerous. Your doctor may order blood tests to determine whether you have metastasized cancer or if the cancer has merely spread to other parts of your body.
A testicular cancer diagnosis may require the coordination of the efforts of several healthcare professionals, including oncologists and urologists. Urologists, for example, specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the urinary system. Surgeons, on the other hand, specialize in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Oncology nurses may also be involved in your care, which is important for the overall health and well-being of your loved one. Psychosocial support for your family is also necessary.
The most common type of testicular cancer is germ cell cancer, or embryonal carcinoma. About 95% of testicular cancers are germ cell tumors, while 5% are sex cord-gonadal stromal tumors, originating in Leydig and Sertoli cells. While this type of tumor may look benign, it is highly unlikely to be successful. In order to ensure a good outcome, a proper diagnosis is required. The doctor will run blood tests to detect the presence of tumor markers and a pathologist will look at the specimen.
If you suspect you might have testicular cancer, you should seek medical attention immediately. Even if it is rare, testicular cancer is the second-most common cancer in young men. If you suspect you have this type of cancer, you should consult your GP immediately. Your doctor may suspect you of testicular cancer if you notice a lump or swelling of the testicles. Although you might not feel anything at all, it is still important to discuss any suspicious symptoms.
Surgical procedures are used to treat testicular cancer. Surgery may remove the entire testicle or just part of it, but this procedure will remove the affected testicle. The testicle will be removed and examined by a pathologist. Depending on the stage of the cancer, you may be treated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. If surgery is not an option, you may choose chemotherapy or radiotherapy to control symptoms. These treatments are often effective, but may also cause further damage.
If your doctor suspects testicular cancer, your doctor may perform a PET-CT scan to check for the extent of the disease. This test will show whether the cancer has spread to other parts of your body, such as lymph nodes or the central nervous system. A doctor will determine the best course of treatment for you based on your age, the stage of the disease, your health, and your preferences for treatment. If your cancer is confined to your testicle, the best treatment will be chemotherapy or radiation. Otherwise, your doctor may suggest active surveillance to monitor the condition.
