Why Would Someone Be Referred to a Hematologist?
A primary care physician plays a vital role in the overall health of an individual. In most cases, primary care physicians are the first medical
Testicular Cancer Diagnoses and Treatment
in NJ, CT, MD, and the Washington, D.C., Area
Patients who have received a diagnosis of testicular cancer can find outstanding care and a variety of treatment options at Regional Cancer Care Associates. Compassionate physicians are also available to provide second opinions on a diagnosis or treatment plan. We offer cutting-edge medical care at multiple convenient locations throughout New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C. area.
Testicular Cancer: Get the Facts
The testes or testicles are a pair of male glands that produce sperm and hormones, including testosterone. They are found within the scrotum sac that hangs behind and below the penis. Many types and subtypes of cells form the testicles, so there are several types of testicular cancer.
What is Cancer of the Testicles?
While rare, testicular cancer is the most common form of cancer detected in men between the ages of 15 and 45. Cancer is cell growth that is abnormal and uncontrolled. It can lead to the formation of tumors or masses. These abnormal cells also can spread to the lymph or blood systems, which enables cancer to spread throughout the body. Testicular cancer can develop in one or both testicles.
What Are the Risk Factors for Testicular Cancer?
There are several known risk factors for testicular cancer, including:
- Age
- Family history of testicular cancer, or previous testicular cancer diagnosis
- An undescended testicle, or unusual testicle development
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection
- Race and ethnicity
- Klinefelter Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder in which a male is born with an extra X chromosome
It is important to understand, however, that testicular cancer can occur in men and boys of any age, including in those who do not have any of these known risk factors.
Testicular Cancer Can Be Found Early
If cancer does not spread outside the testicles, patients have a higher chance of survival. The American Cancer Society reports that the five-year relative survival rate for localized testicular cancer is around 99%. However, this number drops to 73% once cancer reaches distant organs.
These statistics highlight the importance of early detection and treatment. Body awareness and self-exams are key to the early detection of testicular cancer. Whether a testicle appears swollen, or a lump is discovered, any symptom should be brought to the attention of a qualified medical professional as soon as possible. Unfortunately, not all testicular cancers cause symptoms.
Primary Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
Some people experience painful testicular cancer symptoms, while others do not have any symptoms. Becoming aware of the common symptoms of testicular cancer can aid in early detection. They include:
- Lump in the testicle, often without pain
- Change in size or feeling (i.e., one testicle may be larger or firmer)
- Swelling in the scrotum or in one or both legs
- Pressure, weight, or ache in the scrotum or groin area
- Breast soreness, or swelling, lumps, or other changes in the breasts
- Fluid collecting in the testicles
- Early signs of puberty in boys
- Belly or lower back pain
The Stages of Testicular Cancer
Oncologists employ a standardized approach to assess the status – or “stage” — of testicular cancer. This helps guide the clinical categorization of the cancer, as well as to choose the most appropriate treatment regimen. There are four main testicular cancer stages:
- Stage 0: Abnormal cells are found
- Stage 1: Active cancer is found in cells
- Stage 2: Cancer has spread outside the testicle but remains in the scrotum
- Stage 3: Cancer has spread to nearby or distant parts of the body
Treating Testicular Cancer
Factors including a patient’s age and overall health, the type of testicular cancer, and the stage of cancer help determine the best course of action, which for some patients and types of tumors may entail active surveillance – regular and careful monitoring and testing – rather than immediate treatment. The oncology experts at Regional Cancer Care Associates may recommend one, or a combination of, the following testicular cancer treatments:
- Surgery to remove the testicle, spermatic cord, and any tumors or affected lymph nodes
- Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells in the testicle or within lymph nodes
- Chemotherapy drugs taken intravenously or by mouth to kill cancer cells
- Targeted therapy using drugs that target the cancer cells while leaving healthy cells intact
In addition to these options, new treatments continue to be evaluated in clinical trials. An emerging treatment option involves stem cell transplantation in conjunction with chemotherapy.
Coping with Testicular Cancer
A cancer diagnosis can be very difficult for the patient, as well as for the person’s loved ones. The team at Regional Cancer Care Associates encourages everyone involved to learn more about testicular cancer. There are many resources available from respected organizations, such as the American Cancer Society. Regional Cancer Care Associates also provides support and information. Please talk with a healthcare professional in you need assistance with any of the following:
- Nursing services
- Social work services
- Financial aid
- Nutritional advice
- Rehabilitation or physical therapy
- Spiritual help
- Rides to treatment
- Lodging
- Support groups
Find Care You Can Trust at Regional Cancer Care Associates
Patients with testicular cancer can receive outstanding, comprehensive, and advanced treatment at Regional Cancer Care Associates. Patients also benefit from the convenience of obtaining the latest in cancer care close to home. Contact RCCA about care for cancer and blood disorders at one of its 25 locations throughout New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C., area.
Regional Cancer Care Associates — Cancer care you can trust
Regional Cancer Care Associates (RCCA) offers high-quality, comprehensive and advanced treatment close to home. At RCCA, you’ll be treated by experts who are part of one of the largest cancer care networks in the country. We focus on every patient, individually, and work with you and your family to make sure your care is second to none.
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call (844) 346-7222. You can also schedule an appointment by calling the RCCA location nearest you.
Physicians SPECIALIZED IN Testicular Cancer
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