Romero explained that although they are tumors that share some characteristics, “some specific issues arise regarding their evolution and treatment that have differences. “Both subtypes are sensitive to chemotherapy treatment, but the difference regarding treatment is that seminomas are sensitive to radiotherapy, while non-seminomas are resistant to radiation treatment.”
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Although its specific cause is not yet known, some have been identified. risk factor’s with a clear association with this type of tumor, such as alterations in testicular development, among which the lack of descent of the testicle to the scrotum stands out – which in medical terms is called cryptorchidism -, the presence of a previous cancer in the area and family background, among others.
Symptoms and signs to look out for
“The testicle, being a palpable organ in general, offers the possibility that if there is any alteration it can be quickly palpable, They are tumors that generally tend to grow quickly and one of the symptoms that they generate the fastest is an increase in size., which many times does not generate other symptoms,” said Romero, which is why he emphasized that men must be attentive and perform a self-examination. “The testicle may become harder or rougher and does not cause pain, that draws quite a bit of attention. “We have to take it into account if this happens at any age and especially at the age of young adults.”
If a man consults because of this symptom, the first thing that is performed in the office is a physical examination and then generally two are indicated. studies: one by images, through an ultrasound where the presence of the tumor can be evaluated, and a blood test with a study of tumor markers.
“Testicular cancer is a disease that can often increase the blood values of these tumor markers and that guides us towards the diagnosis,” said the Leben Salud specialist.
When these values “are positive, the pathological diagnosis is made and the testicle must be removed through surgery, called inguinal orchiectomy. It is done through the groin, which is the correct method to do it.”
“It is important that the consultation be quick, in the event of an increase in size, since this increases the possibility that the disease will be diagnosed at an early stage and thus greatly increase the possibility of a definitive cure.” (Dr. Pablo Romero, Leben Salud) “It is important that the consultation be quick, in the event of an increase in size, since this increases the possibility that the disease will be diagnosed at an early stage and thus greatly increase the possibility of a definitive cure.” (Dr. Pablo Romero, Leben Salud)
Treatment
Romero also specified that “once the pathological diagnosis of the disease is made, what is done are studies to evaluate the extent of the disease. If this cancer was only located at the level of the testicle or there was spread of these malignant cells to other organs. This can occur through the lymph nodes or the blood.”
The method used to perform this staging is a computed tomography “which will provide information on whether the disease has made nodules outside the testicle, and through this staging it is observed whether it is necessary to propose another type of treatment with respect to the stage of the disease.”
The oncologist indicated thatMen should consult a doctor if a lump is palpable or pain, redness or any other strange symptom appears.. “It’s very important have check-ups with your GP once a year”.
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Fertility
A point to keep in mind, it was highlighted, is that when dealing with young patients who will undergo treatments that can alter their fertility and sexual sphere, it is important to “anticipate these situations and offer them the possibility of preserving sperm as long as the disease allows it.” ”, due to the stage of the pathology.
“Orchiectomy itself should not significantly affect fertility, as long as the patient has a healthy remaining testicle,” it was mentioned.
How to do a testicular self-examination
To do it testicle self-assessment, the skin of the scrotum should be palpated, looking for any type of injury or signs of inflammation. Each testicle should be examined with both hands and then held with the thumb and middle finger.
Experts call to pay attention to the presence of nodules or small areas of induration, and to notice changes in size, shape or usual consistency. It should be noted that you should not feel any pain when performing this procedure.
Although in Argentina the most common male cancer is prostatewith a rate of 42 cases per 100,000 men, is not the only tumor that exclusively affects them. Every year, between 3 and 6 men per 100,000 inhabitants suffer from testicular cancer.
