The aim of treatment is to cure the cancer. Treatment can depend on the stage of the testicular cancer. In this article we look at the stages and treatment options of testicular cancer.
Stages of testicular cancer
The type of cancer, the tumor markers and clinical findings, will lead most experienced pathologists/doctors in large treatment centers to make the correct diagnosis. The clinical findings will determine the stage that the testicular cancer has reached. All this information will influence the treatment that is required to treat testicular cancer.
The stages are described in the following ways:
Stage I. the cancer is confined to the testicle.
Stage II. the cancer has spread into the lymph nodes in the abdomen.
Stage III. the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Recurrent. the cancer has returned after treatment.
Treatment of testicular cancer
The aim of treatment is to cure the cancer, the treatment options can include all or some of the following interventions:
Surgery for testicular cancer
The affected testicle is always removed. A prosthesis can be inserted the same weight and shape as the testicle if it is felt to be important. If the cancer involves the lymphatic system them surgery can be used to remove all the affected nodes in the groin and abdomen.
Radiotherapy for testicular cancer Radiotherapy can be used to kill off cancer cells. Radiotherapy can affect fertility, but the effect is not necessarily permanent and sperm production can return. There are side effects with radiotherapy such as fatigue, nausea and diarrhea.
Chemotherapy for testicular cancer
If cancer has spread from the testicle to the lymph nodes chemotherapy is often used. The regime usually involves a cocktail of 3 types and have been found to be very effective. Chemotherapy may also be used to shrink a cancerous tumor prior to surgery.The drugs are carried in the bloodstream so they affect systems of the body as well as the cancerous area. Side effects are common and can be unpleasant and may include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, diarrhea, shortness of breath, mouth sores, and depression of bone marrow production. Sterility is also a side effect so you should discuss this with your doctor prior to treatment.
Emotional support during treatment for testicular cancer
To be told you have cancer is traumatic. When the cancer involves the scrotal area it can be more difficult as it may affect self image, fertility and sexual performance. Family support, support from medical professionals are important to making a good recovery from testicular cancer.
Early detection and cure of testicular cancer
If you discover a lump in your testicle go to a doctor, remember that testicular cancer has a high cure rate and early detection gives you the best chance of a cure.
Article Updated 04/28/2006