Testicular Cancer is a relatively rare disease, but is more prevalent among younger males. According to the Singapore National Cancer Registry 2021, testicular cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in males under the age of 29 and the 6th most common among those aged 30 to 39 for the period 2017 to 2021.
What Is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer occurs in one or both the testicles (testes), which are located inside the scrotum. The testes are responsible for producing male sex hormones and sperm for reproduction. Testicular cancer typically forms in germ cells which are the cells that produce the sperms. Testicular cancer is highly curable with a 5-year survival rate of over 95%.
What Are The Types Of Testicular Cancer?
The main types of testicular cancer are categorised based on the type of cells the cancer begins in. The most common type is germ cell testicular cancer, which includes two main subtypes:
- Seminomas – Slow growing and does not include any subtypes.
- Non-Seminomas – Are more varied (may contain at least one of the following subtypes: teratoma, choriocarcinoma, yolk sac tumour and embryonal carcinoma) and grow more quickly.
What Are The Symptoms Of Testicular Cancer?
The symptoms of testicular cancer may include:
- A lump or enlargement in either testicle.
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
- A dull ache in the lower abdomen, testicle, or scrotum.
- Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts.
- Change in shape and size of either testicle.
What Are The Risk Factors For Testicular Cancer?
Risk factors for developing testicular cancer include:
- An undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
- Family history of testicular cancer
What Are The Stages Of Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer is categorised into several stages that describe the extent of the disease:
Stage I – Cancer is confined to the testis.
Stage II – Cancer has spread to lymph nodes in the abdomen.
Stage III – Cancer has spread beyond the lymph nodes (possibly to the lungs, liver, or brain).
The stage of cancer at diagnosis can significantly affect treatment decisions and outcomes.
How To Screen For Testicular Cancer?
Screening for testicular cancer primarily focuses on early detection and involves several methods aimed at identifying the presence of cancer before symptoms become evident. Here are some of the key components of testicular cancer screening:
1. Testicular Self-Exams
One of the most important and recommended screening methods is the testicular self-exam. Men are advised to perform this exam monthly, especially those in high-risk categories. This involves:
- Feeling each testicle individually. It can be done by placing the index and middle fingers underneath the testicle with your thumb on top, then rolling each testicle between your thumb and fingers.
- Checking for any lumps, changes in size, shape, or consistency.
- Reporting any abnormalities or discomfort noticed during the self-exam to a healthcare professional immediately.
2. Clinical Examination
A routine physical exam by a healthcare professional may include checking the testicles for lumps, swelling, or other abnormalities. Although not all lumps or abnormalities may indicate cancer, a clinical exam can help determine if further testing is needed.
3. Ultrasound
If a lump or abnormality is found during a self-exam or clinical exam, an ultrasound of the scrotum is often the next step. This imaging test uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the scrotum and can help distinguish between benign (non-cancerous) conditions and malignancies.
4. Blood Tests for Tumour Markers
Blood tests can check for tumour markers, which are substances often found in higher amounts if cancer is present. For testicular cancer, the main markers include:
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) – Elevated levels can indicate non-seminoma type of testicular cancer but are not usually raised in seminomas.
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) – Increased levels can be found in both seminomas and nonseminomas.
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) – This may be elevated in testicular cancer and is used to assess the extent and prognosis of the disease.
What Are The Treatments For Testicular Cancer?
Treatment for testicular cancer depends on the type and stage of cancer but typically includes one or more of the following:
- Surgical removal of the affected testicle (orchiectomy).
- Radiation therapy, particularly for seminomas. It uses high-energy particles to target and destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy, used in both seminomas and nonseminomas to kill cancer cells. It involves using anti-cancer drugs which can be taken orally or injected into the body.
- Surveillance, particularly in early-stage cancers, to monitor the condition closely without immediate treatment.
Book A Health Screening Package In Singapore
Health screening packages may include some screening methods for testicular cancer such as AFP tumour markers. Browse for available health screening packages from Health365 partners here.
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Key Takeaway
Awareness and early detection are pivotal in managing testicular cancer effectively. As we observe Testicular Cancer Awareness Month, it is crucial for men, particularly those in high-risk groups, to understand the importance of regular screenings and self-exams. By staying informed and proactive about testicular health, one can significantly improve their chances of successful treatment and recovery.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
