Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is cancer which forms in the testicles, part of the male reproductive system.

Causes of testicular cancer

Testicular cancer almost always starts in the germ cells, which produce sperm. Testicular cancer is more common in young to middle-aged males.

The exact cause of testicular cancer is unknown but there are several risk factors that can increase the chances of developing it:

Having an undescended testicle
Abnormal development of the testicles
Previous history of testicular cancer
Family history of testicular cancer (especially in the father or brother)

Having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will definitely develop testicular cancer.

Diagnosis of testicular cancer

Complete physical exam
Testicular biopsy
Ultrasound to provide images of the testicles and the surrounding tissue
Blood tests

Treatment of testicular cancer at KHCC

Testicular cancer is usually treated depending on the size of the tumor and stage of diagnosis. Treatment may include radiotherapy with surgery to remove the testis or affected metastatic areas. In select patients, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy may be used.

The aim of treatment for all patients is curative. Chemotherapy is essential for achieving a cure when the testicular tumor has spread to the lymph nodes or organs.

Certain treatment options can cause infertility, so, we encourage patients who wish to have children at a later stage to use sperm banking before proceeding with treatment.