Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 20-34 years of age. The annual incidence is 3 in 100,000 men per year. Therefore, it is very important to promote testicular self-examination (TSE) beginning in the adolescent male for early diagnosis of testicular cancer. Not every lump leads to the diagnosis of testicular cancer. An undescended testicle is considered the only risk factor for developing cancer of the testicle. Definitive diagnosis of testicular cancer is achieved by physical examination, ultrasound and blood tumor markers. Radical orchiectomy is the treatment of choice for localized cancer of the testis. Radiation, chemotherapy and surgery may be needed for advanced disease.
Can I prevent getting testicular cancer? There are no ways to prevent testicular cancer, as it is not clear what causes testicular cancer in the majority of cases. However, there are ways to improve the chances of early detection, and therefore enhancing your chances of treatment. Some doctors recommend that you conduct regular self-examinations in order to identify testicular cancer at its earliest stage. If you choose to do so, the optimal opportunity to self-examine is after a warm bath or shower. This is when the scrotum is most relaxed. If you find a lump, call your doctor. Who is at greatest risk from testicular cancer? There are a number of factors that may put you at greater risk from testicular cancer:- Although rare, those with an undescended testicle are at greater risk of testicular cancer in either testicle than men whose testicles have both descended normally. Testicles that have descended surgically do not lessen the risk.
- Those with a family history of testicular cancer are at greater risk.
- Men between the age of 15 and 34. Although testicular cancer can arise at any age, it is more common in young men.
- White men are at greater risk than men of other races
- Those with abnormal testicle development
- A lump in the testicle
- A dull aching in the groin
- Aching feeling in the lower belly or scrotum
- An abrupt accumulation of fluid in the scrotum
Dr. Frank sees patients at his West Orange office from nearby New Jersey towns, serving Livingson, Short Hills, Millburn, Maplewood, Montclair, Essex Fells, South Orange, Verona, Caldwell, and West Caldwell.
