Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers in young men between the ages of 15 and 35, but the disease also occurs in other age groups, so all men should be aware of its symptoms. While testicular cancer is common among young men, young men typically do not get a lot of cancer, so overall testicular cancer is a relatively rare disease.
An estimated 7600 cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed in the United States every year, and a little less than 400 of them will die. Caucasians are more likely to get it than Hispanics, and much more likely to get it than Blacks or Asians. The instance of testicular cancer around the world has basically doubled in the past 30-40 years.
Most testicular cancer cases are found by men themselves when doing a self-examination or by accident. The testicles are smooth, oval-shaped, and rather firm. Men who examine themselves routinely become familiar with the way their testicles normally feel. Any changes in the way they feel from month-to-month should be checked by a doctor, preferably a Urologist at Carolina Urology.
In men under 60, 95% of testicular tumors originate in the germ cells, the special sperm-forming cells within the testicles. These tumors fall into one of two types, seminomas or nonseminomas. Other forms of testicular cancer include leydig and sertoli cell tumors. Rarely tumors such as PNET, leiomyosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, mesothelioma and others can arise in the testicle. Men over the age of 60 can still get a germ cell tumor, but they are more likely to get leukemia, lymphoma, or a benign tumor called spermatocytic seminoma.
- Pure Seminomas account for about 40 percent of all testicular cancer and are made up of immature germ cells. Usually, seminomas are slow growing and tend to stay localized in the testicle for long periods.
- Nonseminomas are a group of cancers that often occur in combination with one another, including choriocarcinoma, embryonal carcinoma, immature teratoma and yolk sac tumors. Nonseminomas arise from more mature, specialized germ cells and tend to be more aggressive than seminomas.
Whether it is seminomas or nonseminomas, testicular cancer can be self diagnosed. Completing a monthly exam, is your most effective way against the battle of testicular cancer.
How to complete a self- examination:
The most convenient time to examine yourself is while taking a shower or both. The warm water causes the skin to relax, making the examination of the underlying issues easier.
First:Examine your testicles. Slowly roll each resticle between the thumb and fingers. Try to find any hard, nonsensitive lumps.
Second:Examine the epididymis for lumps. This crescent-shaped cord is behind each testicle. This area is tender so do not be alarmed.
Third:Evamine the VAS, the sperm-carrying tube which extends from he epididymis) of each testicle.
Symptoms
In early stages testicular cancer may be symptomless. When symptoms do occur, they include:
• Lump on testicle, epididymis or vas
• Enlargement of a testicle
• Heavy sensation in groin area or testicles
• Dull ache in groin or abdomen
