$Unique_ID{BRK00191}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{What Are the Signs of Testicular Cancer?}
$Subject{testicle mass tumor cancer}
$Volume{J-22}
$Log{
Male Reproductive System*0006001.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Are the Signs of Testicular Cancer?


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QUESTION:  A lump in my (scrotal) sac is bothering me.  Is this a sign of
cancer of the testicle?

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ANSWER:  Although testicular cancer is relatively rare, it's a leading cause
of cancer death in men between the ages of 15 and 34.  It is more common in
whites than in blacks or Hispanics, and extremely rare in men over the age of
45.
     The first symptom may be a painless lump that you discover while taking a
shower or during sex.  It may suddenly become painful or swell, in the course
of a few days or even hours.  Sometimes the first symptom is back pain.
     If your doctor finds a lump or irregularity on the surface of your
testicle, he might first treat you with antibiotics, for the greatest
probablity is that an infection is causing the problem.  But a follow-up visit
is a must.  If the symptoms persist after antibiotic therapy, the next step is
an ultrasound study of the testes to detect if there are any lesions or
tumors.  Both testicles will be studied so that they can be compared to see if
there are any abnormalities.  If a tumor is found, your doctor will also want
to conduct a CT scan and chest x-rays to determine what stage of progress the
disease is in.  Staging is important to determine the precise treatment
required.
     Testicular cancer grows very rapidly, so it's important to detect and
treat the problem as early as possible.  When detected in the earliest stage,
95% of patients can be cured; in the second stage, more than 90%, and in the
third state, 75 to 80%.  Once you have been cured, you will have to watch the
other testicle for symptoms for the rest of your life, with annual or more
frequent checkups as well as regular self-examinations.
     Even a brief delay in making the diagnosis can be tragic.  Caught early,
testicular cancer can be treated successfully and you can enjoy a full life.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
