Treatment FAQ

what is the best treatment for suspected testicular cancer?

by Dr. Vladimir Beier Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Medication

Stage IIA seminomas. Radiation: After surgery to remove the testicle (radical inguinal orchiectomy), one treatment option is radiation to the retroperitoneal lymph nodes. These are the lymph nodes at the back of the abdomen (belly). Usually stage II seminomas are given higher doses of radiation than stage I seminomas.

Procedures

Feb 11, 2022 · Deaths: 460. Testicular cancer is a highly treatable, usually curable, cancer that most often develops in young and middle-aged men. Most testicular cancers are germ cell tumors. For treatment planning, germ cell tumors are broadly divided into seminomas and nonseminomas because they have different prognostic and treatment algorithms.

Therapy

Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as other factors, treatment options for testicular cancer can include: Surgery for Testicular Cancer. Radiation Therapy for Testicular Cancer. Chemotherapy for Testicular Cancer. High-Dose Chemotherapy and Stem Cell Transplant for Testicular Cancer.

Nutrition

Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy cures many men with advanced testicular cancer that has spread beyond the testicles. Chemotherapy typically includes a platinum-containing medication (e.g., carboplatinum, cisplatin) and can be given for one or multiple cycles depending on the stage of disease. Chemotherapy is prescribed by a medical oncologist.

Can you cure testicular cancer?

How do I perform a testicular self-exam to protect myself from testicular cancer? Do the exam after a warm shower or bath. The warmth relaxes the skin of your scrotum, making it easier to feel anything... Use both hands to examine each testicle. Place your index and middle fingers underneath the ...

What are the five warning signs of testicular cancer?

Testicular Cancer Treatment Testicular cancer is very treatable, even if it has spread to other parts of the body. Treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer, but include chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy. References: Albala D, Morey A, Gomella L, & Stein J. (2011). Testicular cancer. Oxford American Handbook of Urology.

What specialists treat testicular cancer?

Feb 15, 2008 · The primary treatment for testicular tumors is radical inguinal orchiectomy, which includes removal of the testicle and spermatic cord. After orchiectomy, further treatment is determined by...

Is Stage 4 testicular cancer curable?

Other tumor markers that may be used for testicular cancer include: Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), which is only used to determine how much chemotherapy to give for metastatic non-seminoma... Placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) is another tumor marker doctors may test for, although it is not ...

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Carcinoma in Situ (Stage 0) Testicular Tumors

In this stage, the cancer has not spread outside the testicle, and your tumor marker levels (like HCG and AFP) are not elevated. If CIS is diagnose...

Stage III Seminomas and Non-Seminomas

Even though stage III tumors have spread by the time they are found, most of them can still be cured.Both stage III seminomas and non-seminomas are...

Recurrent Testicular Cancer

If the cancer goes away with treatment and then comes back, it's said to have recurred or relapsed. If this happens, it’s usually within the first...

Sertoli Cell and Leydig Cell Tumors

Typically, radical inguinal orchiectomy is the treatment for Sertoli cell and Leydig cell tumors. Radiation therapy and chemo generally don't work...

More Treatment Information For Testicular Cancer

For more details on treatment options – including some that may not be addressed here – the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) and the Na...

What is stage 0 testicular cancer?

Carcinoma in situ (stage 0) testicular tumors. In this stage, the cancer has not spread outside the testicle, and tumor marker levels (like HCG and AFP) are not elevated. If CIS is diagnosed after surgery removes the testicle, no other treatment is needed. If CIS is found after a testicular biopsy (such as for fertility problems), ...

What is the treatment for stage 2 seminoma?

Stage IIA seminomas. Radiation: After surgery to remove the testicle (radical inguinal orchiectomy), one treatment option is radiation to the retroperitoneal lymph nodes. These are the lymph nodes at the back of the abdomen (belly). Usually stage II seminomas are given higher doses of radiation than stage I seminomas.

Can chemo cure cancer?

The cancer will come back in about 15% to 20% of patients, most often as spread to lymph nodes, but if it does, radiation or chemo can still usually cure the cancer. Radiation therapy: Radiation aimed at para-aortic lymph nodes is another option.

How many cycles of chemo for cancer?

This may be either 3 cycles of BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin) or 4 cycles of E P (etoposide and cisplatin).

Where are the lymph nodes in the abdomen?

These are the lymph nodes at the back of the abdomen (belly). Usually stage II seminomas are given higher doses of radiation than stage I seminomas. Chemotherapy: Another option is chemo, with either 4 cycles of EP (etoposide and cisplatin) or 3 cycles of BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin).

How many cycles of etoposide and cisplatin?

Treatment is typically chemotherapy with 4 cycles of EP (etoposide and cisplatin) or 3 or 4 cycles of BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin). Another option might be VIP (etoposide, ifosfamide, and cisplatin) for 4 cycles. Radiation therapy is generally not used for stage IIC seminoma.

What is stage IB?

Choices for stage IB (T2, T3, or T4) Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND): This is surgery to remove the lymph nodes at the back of the abdomen (belly). If cancer is found in the lymph nodes, chemo is often recommended depending on the number of nodes with cancer in them. (See below.)

Is testicular cancer curable?

Testicular cancer is a highly treatable, usually curable, cancer that most often develops in young and middle-aged men. Most testicular cancers are germ cell tumors. For treatment planning, germ cell tumors are broadly divided into seminomas and nonseminomas because they have different prognostic and treatment algorithms. ...

What are the two prognostication models for testicular cancer?

There are two major prognostication models for testicular cancer: staging,

How many people will die from testicular cancer in 2021?

Incidence and Mortality. Estimated new cases and deaths from testicular cancer in the United States in 2021: [ 1] New cases: 9,470. Deaths: 440. Testicular cancer is a highly treatable, usually curable, cancer that most often develops in young and middle-aged men. Most testicular cancers are germ cell tumors.

Is testicular cancer a germ cell tumor?

Most testicular cancers are germ cell tumors. For treatment planning, germ cell tumors are broadly divided into seminomas and nonseminomas because they have different prognostic and treatment algorithms. For patients with seminoma (all stages combined), the cure rate exceeds 90%.

What percentage of testicular tumors are seminomas?

[ 1] . Less than 50% of malignant testicular germ cell tumors have a single cell type, of which roughly 50% are seminomas.

What is the classification of testicular germ cell tumors?

[ 1] Less than 50% of malignant testi cular germ cell tumors have a single cell type, of which roughly 50% are seminomas. The rest have more than one cell type, and the relative proportions of each cell type should be specified. The cell type of these tumors is important for estimating the risk of metastases and the response to chemotherapy. Polyembryoma presents an unusual growth pattern and is sometimes listed as a single histologic type, though it might better be regarded as a mixed tumor. [ 1 - 3]

What is stage 2 testicular cancer?

Stage II testicular cancer involves the testis and the retroperitoneal or peri-aortic lymph nodes usually in the region of the kidney. Retroperitoneal involvement should be further characterized by the number of nodes involved and the size of involved nodes. The risk of recurrence is increased if more than five nodes are involved or if the size of one or more involved nodes is more than 2 cm. Bulky stage II disease (stage IIC) describes patients with extensive retroperitoneal nodes (>5 cm), which portends a less favorable prognosis.

How to treat testicular cancer?

Surgical methods have been refined, and doctors know more about the best ways to use chemotherapy and radiation to treat different types of testicular cancer. In some cases, more than one of type of treatment might be used.

Can you use chemotherapy for testicular cancer?

Surgical methods have been refined, and doctors know more about the best ways to use chemotherapy and radiation to treat different types of testicular cancer. In some cases, more than one of type of treatment might be used. Treatment Options for Testicular Cancer, by Type and Stage.

What kind of doctor treats cancer?

You may have different types of doctors on your treatment team, depending on the stage of your cancer and your treatment options. These doctors may include: 1 A urologist: a surgeon who specializes in treating diseases of the urinary system and male reproductive system 2 A radiation oncologist: a doctor who treats cancer with radiation therapy 3 A medical oncologist: a doctor who treats cancer with medicines like chemotherapy

What is the number to call for cancer treatment?

Call our National Cancer Information Center at 1-800-227-2345 and speak with one of our trained specialists. Palliative Care. Find Support Programs and Services in Your Area.

What is a radiation oncologist?

A radiation oncologist: a doctor who treats cancer with radiation therapy. A medical oncologist: a doctor who treats cancer with medicines like chemotherapy. You might have many other specialists on your treatment team as well, including physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, nutrition specialists, social workers, ...

Is there a substitute for experience?

There's no substitute for experience. You have the best chance for a good outcome if you go to a hospital that treats many men with testicular cancer. Questions to Ask About Testicular Cancer. Seeking a Second Opinion.

Why are clinical trials important?

Clinical trials are one way to get state-of-the art cancer treatment. In some cases they may be the only way to get access to newer treatments. They are also the best way for doctors to learn better methods to treat cancer. Still, they're not right for everyone.

What is the treatment for testicular cancer?

Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy cures many men with advanced testicular cancer that has spread beyond the testicles. Chemotherapy typically includes a platinum-containing medication (e.g., carboplatinum, cisplatin) and can be given for one or multiple cycles depending on the stage of disease.

Where is the landing zone for testis cancer?

The primary landing zone for metastases from testis cancer are the lymph nodes of the retroperitoneum — the area around and between the aorta and inferior vena cava at the level of the kidneys.

What is the best treatment for stage 2 seminoma?

Radiation Therapy . Radiation therapy is used for men with Stage II seminoma. Radiation has an excellent success rate, but may be associated with long-term toxicities such as second cancers and early cardiovascular disease. Radiation therapy is prescribed by a radiation oncologist.

How to preserve fertility?

The best way to preserve fertility is by sperm banking prior to beginning cancer treatment. Even if you are not ready to start a family, sperm can be stored for many years.

What is partial orchiectomy?

Partial Orchiectomy. Unlike radical orchiectomy, only part of the testicle is removed. Before undergoing testis-sparing surgery, an extensive consultation should occur with the patient and his family regarding expectations and possible outcomes in the operating room. Partial Orchiectomy.

What is the treatment for testicular cancer?

The three main kinds of treatment for testicular cancer are: Surgical treatment: This treatment can include removing the testicle (orchiectomy) and removing associated lymph nodes (lymph-node dissection).

What tests can be done to diagnose testicular cancer?

Tests to help diagnose testicular cancer can include: Ultrasound: This is a procedure that uses high-energy sound waves to form pictures of body tissues. A physical exam and history: A physical exam and medical history can help the doctor look for problems that might be related to testicular cancer.

What age is testicular cancer most common?

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men between ages 20 and 35. Researchers aren’t sure what causes testicular cancer. When testicular cancer is detected and treated early, the cure rate is extremely high.

What percentage of testicular cancers are seminomas?

Between 30 percent and 40 percent of testicular cancers are seminomas. Non-seminoma evolves from more mature germ cells. These tend to be more aggressive tumors. There are also testicular cancers that are a blend of both seminoma and non-seminoma.

Is testicular cancer curable?

Testicular cancer is very curable. While a cancer diagnosis is always serious, the good news about testicular cancer is that it is treated successfully in 95% of cases. If treated early, the cure rate rises to 98%. Although a man’s risk of getting it is 1 in 263, his chance of dying from the disease is only about 1 in 5,000.

How do you know if you have testicular cancer?

Consult a doctor if you have any of these symptoms: Swelling or a sudden gathering of fluid in the scrotum. Feeling of heaviness in the scrotum. A lump or swelling in either testicle. Build-up of fluid on the scro tum.

How good is the prognosis for testicular cancer?

The prognosis is good for most men with testicular cancer. This form of cancer is treated successfully in more than 95 percent of cases. Even men with unfavorable risk factors have, on average, a 50 percent chance of being cured.

Is testicular cancer a treatable disease?

Testicular cancer is very treatable, even if it has spread to other parts of the body. Treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer, but include chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation therapy.

What type of cancer is found in the testicles?

Around 90 percent of all testicular cancers start in the germ cells that produce immature sperm, and there are two main types of cancer that grow from these cells: seminomas and nonseminomas. Seminoma: A slow-growing form of testicular cancer that may spread to the lymph nodes but is often just in the testicles.

Where does testicular cancer spread?

Testicular cancer develops in the testicles (or testes) but can spread to nearby tissues and other parts of the body via the lymph system and blood. The testes, which are home to a variety of cell types, are responsible for producing male sex hormones and sperm for production.

What is the stage of testicular cancer?

Following tests, the testicular cancer is given a stage: Stage I : The testicular cancer is solely in the testicle (s). Stage II: The cancer has traveled to the abdominal lymph nodes. Stage III: Cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs, liver, bones, and brain.

What percentage of testicular cancer starts in germ cells?

Knowing a cancer's classification can help the oncologist and consulting urologist determine how to best treat the disease. Around 90 percent of all testicular cancers start in the germ cells that produce immature sperm, and there are two main types of cancer that grow from these cells: seminomas and nonseminomas.

What is the pain of testicular cancer?

Testicular cancer typically presents as a painless mass in the testis, although many patients have diffuse pain, swelling, or hardness in the scrotum. 1 Table 1 presents the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer. 1, 19

What are the risk factors for testicular cancer?

Risk factors for testicular cancer include cryptorchidism (i.e., undescended testicles), family history, infertility, tobacco use, and white race. Cryptorchidis m is an important risk factor; 10 percent of patients with testicular cancer have a history of this condition. 4 A large cohort study found that cryptorchidism repair before puberty is associated with a twofold increase in the risk of testicular cancer; delaying repair until after 12 years of age increases the risk fivefold. 5 There is also a genetic link associated with testicular cancer. Having a brother with testicular cancer increases a man's risk six- to 10-fold. 6 This genetic link is one possible reason why one group (white men) are more likely than another (black men) to develop testicular cancer. 7 Research is ongoing to identify a connection between testicular cancer and the gene testicular germ cell tumor 1 on chromosome Xq27. 8

Can testicular cancer affect fertility?

9, 10, 34 The treatment for testicular cancer also may affect fertility. Chemotherapy has a toxic effect on the germ cells, which can cause an increase in follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormone levels and a decrease in testosterone levels. In one study of 272 patients treated for testicular cancer, 13 percent of patients developed hypogonadism requiring testosterone supplementation. 34

Is testicular cancer a second malignancy?

SECOND MALIGNANCY. A possible complication of testicular cancer treatment is a second malignancy. The most common type is leukemia, which can be a complication of radiation or chemotherapy. 31, 37. Bone marrow exposure to radiation can cause acute myelogenous or lymphocytic leukemia.

What is the most common malignancy in men?

Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy in men 20 to 35 years of age and has an annual incidence of four per 100,000. If diagnosed early, the cure rate is nearly 99 percent. Risk factors for testicular cancer include cryptorchidism (i.e., undescended testicles), family history, infertility, tobacco use, and white race.

What causes a scrotal mass?

In addition to testicular cancer, potential causes of a scrotal mass include epididymal mass, epididymitis, hydrocele, swelling of the testicular appendix, and varicocele. Abnormal testicular findings include a firm, hard, or fixed mass. When a mass is found, transillumination can further define it.

What are the markers of tumors?

Serum tumor markers are usually obtained before orchiectomy and include alpha fetoprotein, β-hCG, and lactate dehydrogenase. 21, 22 In early stages of cancer, levels of these proteins tend to be in the normal range. As nonseminoma tumors progress, they elevate alpha-fetoprotein and β-hCG levels.

How to diagnose testicular cancer?

This section describes options for diagnosing testicular cancer. Not all tests listed below will be used for every person. Your doctor may consider these factors when choosing a diagnostic test: 1 The type of cancer suspected 2 Your signs and symptoms 3 Your age and general health 4 The results of earlier medical tests

What type of cancer is testicular?

And, if it does, the pathologist determines what type of cancer cells they are. Most testicular cancers are germ cell tumors, which are divided into 2 categories: seminoma and non-seminoma (see the Introduction for more information on the different types of non-seminoma).

What are the markers of testicular cancer?

Other tumor markers that may be used for testicular cancer include: 1 Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), which is only used to determine how much chemotherapy to give for metastatic non-seminoma (see Types of Treatment ). This is because many other cancers and non-cancerous conditions can increase LDH levels. LDH is not used to find testicular cancer. 2 Placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) is another tumor marker doctors may test for, although it is not commonly measured.

What is it called when cancer spreads to another part of the body?

They also do tests to learn if cancer has spread to another part of the body from where it started. If this happens, it is called metastasis. For example, imaging tests can show if the cancer has spread. Imaging tests show pictures of the inside of the body.

What is the name of the doctor who treats testicular cancer?

A urologist is a doctor who specializes in treating testicular cancer and other conditions of the urinary tract. Physical examination and ultrasound are usually the first performed. If they show an abnormality that appears to be a tumor, then blood tests are done.

What tests are done to check for cancer?

Physical examination and ultrasound are usually the first performed. If they show an abnormality that appears to be a tumor, then blood tests are done. In addition, the testicle may need to be surgically removed to look for signs of cancer. Physical examination.

What does a sonogram show?

If there is a tumor large enough to be seen on an ultrasound, then the sonogram will show the size, location, and solidness of the tumor. A solid tumor inside the testicle is very likely to be cancerous. Blood tests/tumor markers. The levels of serum tumor markers are measured before surgery to remove a testicle.

Can testicular cancer be cured?

Type of cancer. Size of the tumor. Number and size of retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Testicular cancer can usually be cured in patients who receive ad juvant chemotherapy or radiation therapy after their primary treatment .

What is testicular cancer?

Key Points. Testicular cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of one or both testicles. Health history can affect the risk of testicular cancer. Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer include swelling or discomfort in the scrotum. Tests that examine the testicles and blood are used to detect (find) ...

What are the risk factors for testicular cancer?

Risk factors for testicular cancer include: Having had an undescended testicle. Having had abnormal development of the testicles. Having a personal history of testicular cancer. Having a family history of testicular cancer (especially in a father or brother).

Can testicular cancer cause infertility?

Treatment for testicular cancer can cause infertility. Certain treatments for testicular cancer can cause infertility that may be permanent. Patients who may wish to have children should consider sperm banking before having treatment. Sperm banking is the process of freezing sperm and storing it for later use.

What is the process used to find out if cancer has spread within the testicles or to other parts of the

The process used to find out if cancer has spread within the testicles or to other parts of the body is called staging. The information gathered from the staging process determines the stage of the disease. It is important to know the stage in order to plan treatment.

What is it called when cancer spreads to another part of the body?

When cancer spreads to another part of the body, it is called metastasis . Cancer cells break away from where they began (the primary tumor) and travel through the lymph system or blood.

Is metastatic cancer the same as primary cancer?

The metastatic tumor is the same type of cancer as the primary tumor. For example, if testicular cancer spreads to the lung, the cancer cells in the lung are actually testicular cancer cells. The disease is metastatic testicular cancer, not lung cancer. YouTube.

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