Testicular cancer is a malignancy that occurs in the testicles, often affecting young men aged 15 to 35. It is one of the most treatable forms of cancer with a high cure rate.
Characteristics and Symptoms:
- Painless Lump: A firm, painless swelling or lump in the scrotum.
- Testicular Pain: Discomfort or pain in one testicle or the scrotum.
- Changes in Testicle Size: Enlargement or shrinkage of one testicle.
- Back Pain: May occur if cancer spreads to the lymph nodes in the abdomen.
Diagnosis:
- Physical Examination: Palpation of the testicles to identify lumps or abnormalities.
- Ultrasound: Imaging to assess the characteristics of the lump.
- Blood Tests: Tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to aid diagnosis.
Treatment Options:
- Surgery: Orchiectomy to remove the affected testicle.
- Radiation Therapy: Used for certain types of testicular cancer, especially after surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Systemic treatment for advanced or metastatic disease.
