Testicular Cancer Flashcards
(27 cards)
What is testicular cancer and where does it originate?
Testicular cancer is a malignancy that originates in the testes, the male reproductive organs responsible for producing sperm and the hormone testosterone. It is the most common cancer among men aged 15-35 years, though it is rare.
Is testicular cancer treatable?
Yes, testicular cancer is highly treatable, even when diagnosed at an advanced stage.
What are the most common symptoms of testicular cancer?
The most common symptoms of testicular cancer are:
- A painless lump or mass in one testicle.
- Swelling or enlargement of the scrotum.
- Pain or discomfort in the testicle, groin, or lower abdomen.
- Breast enlargement or tenderness (gynecomastia).
- Back pain, particularly in advanced stages.
What are the most common symptoms of testicular cancer?
The most common symptoms of testicular cancer are:
- A painless lump or mass in one testicle.
- Swelling or enlargement of the scrotum.
- Pain or discomfort in the testicle, groin, or lower abdomen.
- Breast enlargement or tenderness (gynecomastia).
- Back pain, particularly in advanced stages.
What does a testicular lump feel like in testicular cancer?
A testicular lump in testicular cancer is typically firm or hard. It can vary in size and is often painless, though it may cause discomfort or a sensation of heaviness in the scrotum in some cases.
How does scrotal swelling present in testicular cancer?
Scrotal swelling or enlargement can be a sign of testicular cancer and may be confused with conditions like epididymitis or hydrocele. However, in testicular cancer, there is usually a firm, irregular lump on the testicle.
What kind of pain is associated with testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer can cause dull or sharp pain in the testicle, groin, or lower abdomen. Painful swelling or a sense of heaviness may also occur, although these symptoms are not always present.
How does gynecomastia relate to testicular cancer?
Gynecomastia, or the enlargement of breast tissue, can occur in testicular cancer due to hormone imbalances. This is particularly seen in certain subtypes of testicular cancer that produce hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
How can back pain be related to testicular cancer?
Back pain, especially in the lower back, can be an indirect symptom of testicular cancer. It often occurs in advanced stages when the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs.
How can you distinguish testicular cancer from hydrocele?
Hydrocele is the accumulation of fluid around the testicle, causing swelling. It is typically smooth and non-tender, while testicular cancer is more likely to be hard and irregular in shape.
How does epididymitis or orchitis differ from testicular cancer?
Epididymitis or orchitis are infections that cause painful scrotal swelling. These conditions are usually associated with fever, tenderness, and redness, which are not typical symptoms of testicular cancer.
What is a varicocele, and how does it differ from testicular cancer?
A varicocele is a dilatation of the veins within the scrotum, causing a swollen or “bag of worms” sensation. Unlike testicular cancer, a varicocele does not usually present with a firm mass or lump.
What is essential for the early diagnosis of testicular cancer?
Early diagnosis of testicular cancer is crucial for effective treatment. The diagnostic process includes clinical examination, imaging, and laboratory tests.
What is involved in a clinical examination for testicular cancer?
During a clinical examination, the doctor palpates the testicles to assess size, consistency, and presence of lumps or masses. The groin, abdomen, and back are also examined for signs of spread, such as enlarged lymph nodes. A digital rectal examination (DRE) may be performed to check for prostate abnormalities.
What tumor markers are used to diagnose and monitor testicular cancer?
The key tumor markers include:
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): Elevated in non-seminomatous cancers, especially embryonal carcinoma and yolk sac tumors.
- Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG): Elevated in both seminomas and non-seminomas, correlating with tumor size and treatment response.
- Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH): Elevated in aggressive or metastatic testicular cancer.
These markers help confirm the diagnosis and monitor treatment effectiveness, although their absence does not rule out cancer.
What imaging techniques are used to diagnose testicular cancer?
Imaging studies used include:
Ultrasound: The first-line technique for evaluating testicular masses, differentiating between solid and cystic masses. Testicular tumors appear as hypoechoic (dark) masses with irregular borders.
CT Scan: Used to assess for spread to lymph nodes, liver, lungs, or other organs.
MRI: Primarily used to assess retroperitoneal lymph node involvement but not typically for initial diagnosis.
What imaging techniques are used to diagnose testicular cancer?
Imaging studies used include:
Ultrasound: The first-line technique for evaluating testicular masses, differentiating between solid and cystic masses. Testicular tumors appear as hypoechoic (dark) masses with irregular borders.
CT Scan: Used to assess for spread to lymph nodes, liver, lungs, or other organs.
MRI: Primarily used to assess retroperitoneal lymph node involvement but not typically for initial diagnosis.
What is the cornerstone of treatment for testicular cancer?
The cornerstone of treatment for testicular cancer is radical inguinal orchiectomy, which involves the removal of the affected testicle through an incision in the groin. This procedure is essential for both diagnosis and treatment.
When is orchiectomy enough for treating testicular cancer?
If the cancer is confined to the testicle, orchiectomy may be sufficient to achieve a cure. However, if the cancer has spread, further treatment is required.
How are seminomas managed after orchiectomy?
Seminomas are highly sensitive to radiation and chemotherapy. After orchiectomy, radiation therapy is often used, particularly to treat the retroperitoneal lymph nodes if the tumor is confined to the testicle.
What is the treatment approach for non-seminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCTs)?
NSGCTs typically require chemotherapy even after orchiectomy. The BEP regimen (bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin) is commonly used and highly effective for treating these tumors.
How is chemotherapy used in testicular cancer treatment?
Chemotherapy is often used for metastatic or high-risk testicular cancer. Common regimens include:
BEP (Bleomycin, Etoposide, Cisplatin): Effective for most cases.
VIP (Etoposide, Ifosfamide, Cisplatin): Used for resistant or relapsed cancer.
What role does radiation therapy play in the treatment of testicular cancer?
Radiation therapy is mainly used for seminomas, typically after orchiectomy, to treat remaining cancer cells, especially in the retroperitoneal lymph nodes. It may also be combined with chemotherapy for non-seminomatous tumors with nodal involvement.
How is fertility preserved in testicular cancer patients?
Sperm banking (cryopreservation) is offered to all patients prior to treatment, especially those undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, as these treatments can affect fertility.
