Programme 1: Testicular Cancer

Background Information

Testicular self-examination

Men should be familiar with the appearance and feel of their testicles so that they know immediately if there is any change to them or if a lump is developing. Health Promotion centres throughout the UK may have films and test models you can borrow and leaflets specifically targeted at young people.

Diagnosis

A painless lump is probably a harmless fluid-filled cyst, but it could be a cancerous tumour that can be treated very effectively. A specialist will examine the testicle and may do an ultrasound scan to help distinguish between a benign lump and a cancerous tumour. There are two main types of testicular cancer - seminomas and teratomas. Teratomas tend to occur in men aged 15-30 while seminomas are more common in the 30-50 age group.

Treatment

The usual treatment for testicular cancer is to remove the affected testicle - an operation called an orchidectomy. Over the years, this has proved highly effective with excellent cure rates. Men with seminomas often have a course of radiotherapy after their operation to treat glands at the back of the abdomen, and chemotherapy is usually recommended in cases of seminoma or teratoma that show signs of coming back.

Outcome

Even if testicular cancer does come back, or it has started to spread by the time it is diagnosed, the chances of cure are excellent. However, as treatment may be associated with impotence and infertility, it is important to discuss these possibilities with your specialist before starting treatment, particularly if you have not completed your family.