Testicular cancer

Alternative names:

cancer of the testes; testicular neoplasm

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the type of tumor, the stage of the tumor, and the extent of the disease.

Surgical treatment includes orchiectomy and lymphadenectomy (removal of the testicle and associated lymph nodes).

Radiation therapy is frequently used following lymphadenectomy of non-seminomatous tumors. It may also be used as the primary treatment for seminomas, especially those in the earlier stages.

Chemotherapy has greatly enhanced the survival rate of non-seminomatous testicular tumors.

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining a support group where members share common experiences and problems. See cancer - support group.

Expectations (prognosis):

The survival rate for men with early stage seminoma (the least aggressive type of testicular cancer) is approximately 97%. The disease-free survival rate for Stage I non-seminomatous cancer is nearly 99%; for Stage II 87%; and for Stage III 57%. Choriocarcinoma is an aggressive form of tumor. Advanced signs of metastasis may be present before a testicular mass is noted.

Complications:

Metastasis (spreading) to other parts of the body may occur with testicular cancer. The most common sites include the retroperitoneal area, the abdomen, the spine, and the lungs.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms of testicular cancer occur.

Also call if you are a male over 15 years old who has not been taught testicular self examination (TSE), or who has not had testicular screenings performed by your health care provider during routine physical examinations.