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Testicular cancer is a rare cancer that affects the testicles, and the male reproductive organs that produce sperm. It is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35.
The exact testicular cancer causes are unknown, but there are several risk factors that have been identified, including:
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Undescended Testicles (Cryptorchidism)
This is a condition in which one or both testicles fail to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum before birth.
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Family History
Men who have a family history of testicular cancer are at increased risk of developing the disease.
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Certain Genetic Conditions
Klinefelter syndrome, a condition in which men have an extra X chromosome, is associated with an increased risk of testicular cancer.
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Infertility
Men who have difficulty conceiving are at a slightly increased risk of developing testicular cancer.
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Body Size
Men who are overweight or obese are at slightly increased risk of developing testicular cancer.
Visit the best cancer care hospital in Delhi to learn more about cancer care and its treatments.
The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a painless lump on the testicle. Other testicular cancer symptoms may include:
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Swelling or sudden build-up of fluid in the scrotum.
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A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
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Faint pain in the groin or lower abdomen.
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Pain or discomfort in the scrotum or a testicle.
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Tenderness or changes in the male breast tissue.
Testicular cancer is highly treatable, especially when it is caught early. If you come across any of these symptoms, consult with a cancer care doctor to get testicular cancer treatment and do not ignore these signs.
The diagnosis of testicular cancer is usually made with a physical exam and an ultrasound of the testicles. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
The treatment for testicular cancer depends on the stage of the cancer. Early-stage testicular cancer can often be cured with surgery to remove the affected testicle. In more advanced cases, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may also be used.
With early diagnosis and treatment, the cure rate for testicular cancer is over 95%. This makes testicular cancer one of the most treatable cancers. Some ways to reduce your risk of developing testicular cancer are:
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Health checkups - Get regular testicular exams.
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If you have undescended testicles, have them surgically corrected.
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If you have a family history of testicular cancer, talk to your doctor about genetic testing.
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Live a healthy lifestyle by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking.
Treatment options for Testicular Cancer
Oncologists recommend a treatment plan that suits the patient's requirements depending upon the cancer spread and stage. Some treatment options are:
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Surgery
Removing the prostate gland and surrounding tissues.
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Radiation Therapy
Radiation beams from outside the body or inside terminate the cancer cells
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Chemotherapy
The use of chemicals or drugs to kill cancer cells. Sometimes chemotherapy may be combined with surgery for optimal results. Visit our official blog page on managing chemotherapy to know more about it.
With a timely diagnosis, testicular cancer is manageable and treatable. Manipal Hospitals Delhi has some of the best oncologists and a dedicated tumour board to chart the best treatment plan for your condition. Visit your nearest Manipal Hospital or book an appointment online for a hassle-free video consultation with our expert doctors right away.
