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Testicular Cancer Symptoms for Patients in NJ, CT, & MD
One of the most curable forms of cancer, testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cell growth starts in the testicles. These organs, which are contained in the scrotum sac located underneath the penis, are responsible for making male hormones and sperm. Understanding common testicular cancer symptoms is key to early detection and treatment. At Regional Cancer Care Associates, our team of compassionate and experienced oncologists provides patients in New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, and the Washington, D.C., area with diagnosis, staging, and treatment for testicular cancer.
Recognize Testicular Cancer Signs and Symptoms
By paying attention to any changes in the genital area, performing regular self-exams, and scheduling routine medical checkups, men are better able to detect testicular cancer symptoms and signs. Cancer can be found in one or both testicles and may spread to other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes and abdomen. Finding testicular cancer early increases the ability of the medical team to select from among more treatment options and achieve the best possible outcomes. Some of the more common symptoms and signs of testicular cancer include:
- A lump in the testicle, often without pain
- Change in size or feeling, e.g., one testicle may be larger or more firm than the other
- 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, and changes noticed in the breasts
- Chest pains
- Fluid collecting in the testicles
- Shortness of breath or coughing up phlegm with blood
- Early signs of puberty in boys
- Belly or lower back pain
It is important to note that these symptoms may indicate causes other than cancer, such as inflammation resulting from a viral or bacterial infection, or a response to an injury. However, any testicular cancer symptoms should be evaluated promptly by a medical practitioner.
Risk Factors for Developing Testicular Cancer
More than half of new cases of testicular cancer are in men between the ages of 20 and 40. However, men of all ages can be diagnosed with the disease. Medical research points to a few risk factors in addition to age, which include:
- Family history of testicular cancer, or previous testicular cancer diagnosis
- An undescended testicle, or unusual testicle development
- HIV infection
- Being Caucasian or of European descent
Diagnosis of Testicular Cancer
The evaluation of possible testicular cancer begins with a physical examination. Ultrasound imaging, blood tests, and other assessments may also aid in detection. Blood tests are performed to determine the presence of specific enzymes or proteins known as tumor markers, which can signify the presence of testicular cancer. They’re also used to determine the extent, or stage, of the cancer. Biopsy of testicular tissue may also be used, but is rarely a component of the diagnostic process. Usually, the diagnosis is made by other tests before the tissue is removed and sent for laboratory analysis to help determine the nature of the cancer.
If cancer is found, the medical team will likely order more tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, positron emission tomography, and bone scans to determine whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body. If a patient already has received a diagnosis of testicular cancer, oncologists at Regional Cancer Care Associates are available for second opinions to confirm the diagnosis or recommend a treatment plan.
Options for Testicular Cancer Treatments
Treatment approaches for testicular cancer are individualized based on the nature and extent of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and other factors. If the cancer is slow growing and has not spread beyond one testicular, an oncologist may recommend surveillance with periodic examinations, blood tests, and imaging studies rather than surgical or other intervention. When treatment is indicated, however, the main options are:
- 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, using drugs taken intravenously or by mouth to kill cancer cells
There may be side effects to using radiation therapy and chemotherapy to treat testicular cancer, including nausea, fatigue, and reduced fertility. However, the expert medical teams at Regional Cancer Care Associates are available to help patients with side effects management.
Researchers and clinicians also are evaluating the role of immunotherapy, which harnesses the power of the body’s immune system to fight cancer, in the treatment of certain types of testicular cancer.
Find Expert Testicular Cancer Care at Regional Cancer Care Associates
A cancer diagnosis can be stressful. That’s why the compassionate and experienced oncology team at Regional Cancer Care Associates is prepared to discuss options and treatments, provide second opinions, and develop and implement personalized cancer treatment plans. Testicular cancer is usually curable. Men of all ages, especially those between 20 and 40, should watch for symptoms. If testicular cancer is detected, our medical team can help. Contact us or schedule a consultation at one of our 25 convenient office locations in 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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