Testicular Cancer
From Encyclopedia of Sex and Sexuality
A relatively rare disease that usually causes no symptoms in its earliest stages. It normally occurs in men between the ages of fifteen and thirty-five, although in one form or another it may affect men of any age. It is a yon man’s disease and is actually the most common form of cancer among men in their late twenties and early thirties. Fortunately it is also on of the most curable of all cancers if caught early, and since the Testicles are outside the body, they are easy to examine.
Cancer of he testicle usually begins as a painless lump or mass in one testicle. It is often noted after minor trauma or injury to the scrotum and its presence is often missed because of the presumed injury to the testicle. The best method for early detection of the cancer is to perform a monthly examination of the testicles, most conveniently while taking a shower or bath (Men who are reluctant to perform the recommended examination could urge sexual partners to do it). A testicle should be smooth and firm with slight softness. Hardness to the testicles, a lump, or any difference between one testicle and the other should result in prompt examination by a qualified doctor. Further examination may include an ultrasound examination of the testicle, which uses sonar and is painless.
Injury to the testicles does not cause testicular cancer. Testicular cancer is more common in men shoe testis was not descended at birth (cryptorchidism). Treatment for cryptorchidism does not affect the chance of testicular cancer occurring, however, and testicular self-examination is critically important for men with a history of undescended testicles.
Treatment of testicular cancer involves removal of the testicle and evaluation for spread of the cancer with a CAT scan, blood tests, and possible other tests. If the cancer has spread beyond the testicle itself, surgery on the abdomen or chemotherapy many be needed. The vast majority of cased of testicular cancer are now curable either with surgery or a combination of surgery and chemotherapy or radiation. Early diagnosis and initiation of treatment is critical to allow the best possible cure rates. Any man who notices a difference in his testicles or a hard area in one testicles should promptly see a urologist or other qualified physician. If a testicle is removed ruing treatment, the remaining one takes over to produce the normal amount of testosterone and sperm. Only one testicle is necessary for normal sexuality and fertility.
