Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer occurs when one or both testicles (testes) develop uncontrolled malignant cells. The testicles are two walnut-shaped male sex glands. Your testicles are in the scrotum underneath the penis. Essentially, testicles produce sperm i.e. the hormone needed for reproduction. Other than this, they produce testosterone and other male hormones. 

Testicular cancer is a rare form of cancer. It happens most often between the ages of 15 and 39 in young men. The cancer detected in the initial stage is treatable and curable without posing a threat of complications. Like other forms of cancer, it can spread to lymph nodes in the abdomen, liver, lungs, pelvic area, and other parts of the body. 

Unluckily, patients come to know its initial symptoms when it reaches the advanced stage. It makes the treatment procedure complicated. The risk of other organs’ removal persists in operation. Therefore, higher-risk patients with testicular cancer should go for regular screening tests. This increases the possibility of catching symptoms of testicular cancer in the early stage and mitigates the risk associated with the treatment. 

This article will discuss testicular cancer symptoms, causes, treatment, and post-operation care or concerns in detail. So, read on!

Signs and Symptoms of Testicular Cancer

Some common symptoms of testicular cancer include:

• A painless lump or swelling in the testicle or testes
• Swelling or sudden fluid build-up in the scrotum
• A shrinking or collapsed testicle
• Discomfort in either the testicle or scrotum
• Dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin area
• Sudden inflammation in the scrotum 
• Backache
• Enlargement or tenderness of the breast tissue.

Most often, men with testicular cancer overlook the feeling of persistent heaviness or dragging sensation in the scrotum. But, they do not take it as a red flag sign until it becomes serious. 

Understanding the importance of self-examination and early detection of signs enhances the success rate of the treatment. Healthcare professionals recommend performing a self-examination at least once a month. It should be done after a warm shower when the scrotal skin is smooth and relaxed. If you notice any symptoms or abnormalities that worry you, consult the doctor right away. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer initiates with uncontrolled DNA mutation. But, researchers are still unsure what causes this abnormal mutation in men’s sex glands. However, understanding the other possible testicular cancer causes can help you stay one step ahead to make informed decisions. 

• Family History: If your sibling or biological parent has a history of testicular or other forms of cancer, there are more chances that you will get this genetic defect from them. 
• Klinefelter Syndrome: Klinefelter syndrome is a genetic condition in which people have a total of 47 chromosomes. The defect of one additional chromosome is a congenital problem, meaning you are born with it. In the later years of life, this can lead to testicular cancer. 

Some common risk factors that increase the risk of developing cancer cells in the testicles include:

• Age: With your growing age, the risk factor for testicular cancer also triggers. In most cases, young adults have been seen as the victims. 
• Previous Cancer History:  If you have already undergone radiation therapy in the pelvic area, you are more likely to develop the symptoms of testicular cancer.
• Undescended Testicle: Also known as cryptorchidism. The testicles form in the belly during fetal development and do not reach the scrotum before birth, increasing the risk of testicular cancer. The risk persists despite having surgery on the descending testicles into the scrotum. 
• Infertility: Men’s infertility is a risk factor for testicular cancer.
• Physical Features: People born with Hypsosapdias are high-risk people for testicular cancer. Their urethra that opens beneath the penis increases the risk.
• HIV/AIDS: Patients diagnosed with HIV/AIDS are more susceptible to this form of cancer. 
• Smoking: Toxic chemicals that enter your body with cigarettes escalate the risk of testicular cancer.

Alcohol: Excessive consumption of alcohol is another factor in developing cancer cells in the testicles.

Diagnosis and Testing for Testicular Cancer

The testicular cancer diagnosis testing plan includes the following:

• Physical Examination: Based on your symptoms, the healthcare professional performs a physical examination to feel lumps in your testicles. Once they identify abnormalities or lumps in the testes, they look for lymph nodes to examine the spread of cancer.
• Ultrasound: The first common diagnostic test for testicular cancer is the ultrasound. In this test, high-energy waves produce detailed images of the tissue of your testicles.
• Biopsy: Also known as inguinal orchiectomy, the doctor removes some tissue as a specimen for the cancer test. They do an incision (cut) in the groin to take tissue from the affected testicles. Then, they confirm the presence of cancer cells using a microscope. 
• Blood Tests: This procedure includes blood samples to measure the substances of tumor markers. The tumor markers highlight an increased level of alpha-fetoprotein, beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin, and lactate dehydrogenase in blood samples. 
• Imaging Tests: The doctor recommends several imaging tests including a CT scan, MRI test, and X-ray to detect the spread of cancer to other organs. 

Testicular Cancer Treatment Options

Once diagnosis tests confirm the presence of testicular cancer, the cancer team discusses with you the most effective testicular cancer treatment options. Based on your medical history, age, ongoing treatments, and preferences, the following treatments are given:

• Chemotherapy 

Chemo drugs such as cisplatin, bleomycin, and etoposide are effective in killing cancer cells. The success rate of treatment is higher in people with early-stage testicular cancer. This is done with both seminomas and non-seminomas patients. The treatment intends to prevent the further progression of cancerous cells. This way, chemotherapy prepares the body for testicular cancer surgery. 

• Radiation Therapy

Also known as gamma therapy or X-ray therapy, radiation therapy uses high-energy waves to kill abnormal cancer cells. Most often, surgeons perform this procedure in conjunction with chemotherapy. Usually, its benefits are limited to patients with seminomas. In some cases, surgeons perform radiation therapy post-surgery to prevent the risk of symptoms reoccurrence. 

• Testicular Cancer Surgery 

The cure for testicular cancer is surgery. It aims to remove testicles permanently to eliminate cancerous cells. In advanced-stage cancers, the surgical treatment removes lymph nodes as well. 

Radical Inguinal Orchiectomy

Orchiectomy is one of the most common surgeries for the removal of one or both testicles. It treats both types of cancers, including seminomas and non-seminomas. In this outpatient procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in your groin to remove the cancerous testicle. Additionally, they close the passage of cancer spread by blocking blood vessels and lymph nodes. 

Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RLND)

Depending on the cancer stage and cancer type, the surgeon recommends Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RLND). This is most effective for the advanced stage of cancer as the surgeon removes lymph nodes in the belly to prevent the risk of the further progression of the disease. The eliminated lymph nodes are used to examine the cancer stage. Furthermore, the surgeon stops the blood supply to the affected testicle(s) and sperm cord. 

Cure for Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is fortunately one of the most treatable and least fatal cancer types. Thanks to advancements in medical treatments and follow-up care, mortality rates among Indian men have significantly dropped. The 5-year survival rate has jumped from 63% to nearly 90%, offering hope to many.

However, cancer care doesn’t end with treatment. Your healthcare provider will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery. These visits are crucial for both your physical health and emotional well-being, helping you feel more confident and less fearful of a recurrence. During follow-ups, your doctor may ask questions such as:

• The type and stage of testicular cancer you had
• The treatment or surgery you underwent
• Any post-treatment side effects or symptoms you’ve noticed

These regular check-ups help assess the risk of cancer returning and allow for early detection of any warning signs. If you notice anything concerning, it’s important to inform your doctor during these visits, as timely screening tests can catch any potential second cancers in their early stages.

Living with Testicular Cancer

Life after cancer is not easy for everyone because two persons are not alike. Their way of coping with physical challenges and managing emotions is different. Even though testicular cancer treatment has come to an end, worries about its reversal can set in the mind and the heart of a cancer survivor. In such a situation, family members and friends should understand that fear, depression, and anxiety are quite normal with the survivor. They should try to build a positive outlook for life in the patient. Here are some ideas that can help you stay positive and happy in lifelong:

• Learn what you can do to minimize the risk of developing second cancer symptoms
• Accept your fears and find ways to rebuild or restore life
• Have an open communication with your family and friends about the uncertainty and fear
• Make healthy changes to your diet and emphasize holistic wellness
• This is the right time to quit smoking to prevent the harmful influence of chemicals on testicles
• Find ways to relax and calm more
• Be physically active as much as you can 
• Go to all follow-visits to collaborate with your doctor
• Do everything that can help you restore your normal life. 

Why Choose Dr. Prabhudev Salanki for Testicular Cancer Treatment? 

Dr. Prabhudev Salanki is a renowned urologist in Bangalore with extensive expertise in uro-oncology and various urinary specialties_. With a distinguished career marked by numerous successful surgeries, he has made a significant impact in treating prostate, bladder, testicular, kidney, and other urological cancers, earning widespread recognition in the Indian medical field.

His qualifications include an MBBS, MS, FRCS, DNB (Urol), FRCS (Urol), FEBU, and a Diploma in Laparoscopic Urology. He is also a Fellow of the International College of Robotics Surgeons. Dr. Salanki’s surgical expertise includes cutting-edge procedures such as laparoscopic surgery, RIRS (Retrograde Intrarenal Surgery) with intracorporeal lasers, and PCNL (Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy).

What sets Dr. Salanki apart is his innovative approach, thorough research, and personalized patient care, which contribute to higher success rates for testicular cancer treatment in a shorter time frame. Beyond medical recovery, his compassionate care helps patients manage their emotional and mental well-being throughout and after their treatment journey.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of testicular cancer, schedule an appointment with Dr. Prabhudev Salanki as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan can greatly increase your chances of beating the disease.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Prabhudev Salanki