TESTICLE, CANCER OF (Testicular Cancer) |
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TESTICLE, CANCER OF (Testicular Cancer)
DESCRIPTIONCancer of the testicle is uncontrolled growth of malignant cells in the testicle. There are several types of testicular cancer, some more dangerous than others. This is the most common form of cancer in young men. The testicles (usually one only) are involved. It affects older adolescent and young adult males.
Appropriate health care includes:
Doctor's treatment.
Surgery to remove the cancerous testicle.
Radiation therapy or chemotherapy for some types of tumors.
Hospitalization for treatment.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
A firm swelling in one testicle discovered by accident or by self-examination.
No pain (usually).
CAUSES
Unknown.
RISK FACTORS
Undescended testicle(s) in infancy -- even if the testicle was surgically moved into the scrotum.
PREVENTING COMPLICATIONS OR RECURRENCEYour son should examine his testicles routinely at least once a month.
BASIC INFORMATION
MEDICAL TESTS
Your own observation of symptoms. Testicular self-examination is the most important diagnostic measure.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Laboratory and radioactive studies of hormone levels.
Biopsy (See Glossary).
X-rays of your son's chest or kidneys to determine if the cancer has spread.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSWithout treatment, some tumors may spread to other parts of your son's body.
PROBABLE OUTCOME
Most types of testicular tumors are curable with surgery and other treatment. A few types are extremely malignant and have a high death rate unless discovered and treated early.
Removal of one testicle does not interfere with normal sexual function or the ability to have normal children.
TREATMENT
HOME CARENo special instructions except those listed under other headings.
MEDICATION
Your doctor may prescribe anticancer drugs for your son for some types of tumors.
See Medications section for information regarding medicines your doctor may prescribe.
ACTIVITY
Your son should resume normal activities as soon as possible. Radiation and chemotherapy may cause temporary fatigue requiring extra rest.
Your sexually active son can resume sexual relations when he is able. Contraception may be necessary for 12 to 18 months because some forms of treatment cause temporary genetic damage to sperm in the remaining testicle.
DIET & FLUIDS
No special diet.
OK TO GO TO SCHOOL?When appetite returns and alertness, strength, and feeling of well-being will allow.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
Your son has a firm swelling or mass in the scrotum.
New, unexplained symptoms develop. Drugs used in treatment may produce side effects.
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