Navigation
[TITLE]

[MESSAGE]

[BUTTONS]

Popular questions...

Content

Are there different types of testicular cancer?

Testicular cancer can be categorized based upon the type of cell it originates from. The types of testicular cancer include germ cell tumors, such as seminomas and non-seminomas, stromal tumors and other cancers from other areas of the body that can spread to the testes.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is testicular cancer?

Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the testicles (testes).

What are the symptoms of testicular cancer?

The symptoms of testicular cancer include: a painless lump or swelling in a testicle; a heavy-feeling scrotum; a testicle that feels hard or rough-textured; ache in the affected testicle, or lower abdomen, and; enlarged or tender breast tissue.

What causes testicular cancer?

The cause of testicular cancer, as with other cancers, is damage to cellular DNA. This damage results in uncontrolled cell growth, which leads to the formation of a tumor.

How is testicular cancer diagnosed?

A tentative diagnosis is made from a physical examination, blood tests and scans, such as ultrasound and CTs. A definitive diagnosis can only be made with the surgical removal of the affected testicle.

How is testicular cancer treated?

If detected before it has spread outside the testes, testicular cancer can be treated with surgical removal of the testes. If it has spread, chemotherapy, radiotherapy and additional surgery may be needed.

Can testicular cancer be cured?

If it is caught before it has spread outside of the testicle, testicular cancer can be cured by surgically removing the affected testicle. However, there is no guarantee the cancer will not develop later in the other testicle.

What increases the chances of developing testicular cancer?

Risk factors for testicular cancer include: undescended testes (cryptorchidism) - this increases the cancer risk, especially if it is not corrected by childhood; family history - having a brother or father with testicular cancer; …

What is the outlook for testicular cancer?

Prognosis of testicular cancer varies according to its type and stage, but it is generally very good. In Australia, as of 2010, the overall five-year survival rate for testicular cancer at the point of diagnosis is 98%. For those who survive the …

Can testicular cancer be prevented?

Testicular cancer cannot be prevented. Also, there are no routine screening tests for testicular cancer. Regular self-examination of the testes and getting acquainted with the way they normally feel may help you to detect any changes.

Related topics

Diseases & conditions

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the name for cancers that form in the prostate gland, which is part of the male reproductive system. Abnormal cells can form a tumour in the prostate gland and spread throughout the body, commonly to the bones.…
Diseases & conditions

Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the name for cancers that arise in lung tissue. Abnormal cells can interfere with lung function and spread to other parts of the body. Smoking is a major risk factor, although non-smokers can also develop lung cancer.…
Diseases & conditions

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. Abnormal cells can form tumours in the ovaries and spread to other parts of the body.…
Diseases & conditions

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of cancer that starts in the melanocyte cells of the skin, usually due to damage from UV light (sunlight). A new or changing mole may be a sign of a potential melanoma. Melanoma cells can spread to other parts of the body.…
Diseases & conditions

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer is the name for cancers that arise in the kidneys, organs that produce urine (to remove waste products from blood) and regulate blood pressure. Abnormal cells can form a tumour, affecting urination, and can spread through the body.…
Diseases & conditions

Skin cancer

Skin cancer is a group of cancers that originate from several different types of skin cells. Treatment options vary, depending on the type and stage. Protective measures, such as minimising sun exposure and wearing appropriate clothing outdoors, can go a long way towards preventing skin cancer.…

About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 07 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Votes: 1070 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Prostate cancer

×

Content goes in here.