MemorialCare Cancer Institute at:
Jonathan Jaques Children's Cancer Center at:
New:
Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer occurs in one or both testicles in the male reproductive system. There are many types of testicular cancer—germ cell tumors are the most common. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), more than 7,000 men will be diagnosed each year with testicular cancer in the United States. It is the most common cancer in young or middle-aged American males and is usually cured.
Symptoms
Testicular cancer symptoms may include:- A lump (can be painless) or swelling in the testicle.
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
- Pain in the testicle, abdomen or lower back.
Causes & Prevention
The causes of testicular cancer are unknown. It is difficult to prevent testicular cancer as most of the risk factors, such as age, race and family history, are uncontrollable and are present from birth.
Risk Factors
Men are at a greater risk for testicular cancer risk if you:- Have undescended testicles (testicles that do not move to the scrotum during fetal development).
- Have abnormalities in the testicles.
- Have a family history or personal history of testicular cancer.
- Are between the ages of 15 and 34 years.
- Are Caucasian.
Diagnosis
Following by a physical exam, a blood test to measure the levels of protein called tumor markers can help detect testicular cancer. An ultrasound (high-frequency sound waves) may be used to view a lump in the testicles to determine if it is solid (more likely to be cancerous) or fluid.
Staging
If cancer is diagnosed and before treatment begins, additional tests are performed to determine the stage of the cancer and to see if it has spread to other parts of the body.
Treatments
MemorialCare’s experienced team of oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists and surgeons conduct roundtable discussions (tumor boards) of newly diagnosed patients to make recommendations for the best course of treatment.
