If you’ve been diagnosed with testicular cancer, your first step is to schedule an examination with your doctor. You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history, and your healthcare provider will look for any sores or lumps that appear in the testicles. They will also examine your groin and belly to see if there are any signs of tumor spread. If they find anything unusual, your doctor will recommend a biopsy.
The most common form of testicular cancer is choriocarcinoma, which starts in the germ cells that support the sperm-making germ cells. This form of cancer tends to spread rapidly to other organs, such as the bones and brain. It is important to know that pure choriocarcinomas can spread outside of the testicles, which is why they are called secondary testicular cancers. Secondary testicular cancers don’t originate in the testicles and are called teratomas because they spread to other parts of the body.
Surgery is another option for patients who have testicular cancer. Surgical removal of the testicle and any lymph nodes associated with the tumor is a common treatment for stage II cancer. If the tumor is small enough to be removed surgically, surgery may be your only option. If the cancer has spread to distant organs, you may also be treated with radiation therapy. Chemotherapy, which involves medicines that target cancer cells, is another treatment option. Patients who receive radiation therapy are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Regular checkups and diet can also prevent cardiovascular problems. Your doctor will also test blood pressure, glucose, and lipid levels to ensure that your body is functioning properly.
If the testicles are enlarged or have unusual colors or a plethora of lumps, you should see your doctor right away. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and recommend the next step. A doctor will then recommend treatment based on your medical history and testicular cancer risk factors. They may recommend a biopsy for additional information. If you’re a man, it’s important to have your testicles checked on a regular basis.
Some testicular cancer symptoms include a firm bump in the testicles, pain in the scrotum, and fluid in the scrotum. You may also experience unexplained weight loss or an enlarged breast. You may also experience back pain. If you’re experiencing symptoms of testicular cancer, it’s advisable to schedule a checkup to rule out other conditions. And remember, early detection is the best way to treat your condition.
Fortunately, treatment for testicular cancer is usually successful and reversible. In most cases, treatment can be performed within a few weeks of discovery. A biopsy can also help identify the exact cause of the disease, so your doctor can prescribe the right treatment. In some cases, the cancer cells can spread throughout the testicles. Despite this, testicular cancer is curable. However, you should not delay treatment until your cancer has spread to the testicles.
