testicular germ cell cancer

Common Signs and Symptoms of Testicular Germ Cell Cancer

Testicular germ cell cancer can cause a range of symptoms, which may vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Here are some common signs and symptoms to look out for:

• Painless lump or swelling in the testicle: This is often the first sign of testicular cancer, and it's usually painless (1).
• Swelling of the testicle, with or without pain: The testicle may become swollen or enlarged, which can be accompanied by a feeling of weight or heaviness (6).
• A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin: Some people may experience a dull ache or discomfort in the lower abdomen or groin area (7).
• Constipation or trouble holding urine: If the tumor is located in the pelvis, it can cause constipation or difficulty urinating (5).
• Leg weakness: In rare cases, the tumor can press on nerves and cause leg weakness (5).

Other Possible Symptoms

While these symptoms are common, not everyone with testicular germ cell cancer will experience them. Other possible symptoms include:

• A feeling of weight in the testicles
• A dull ache or discomfort in the lower abdomen or groin area
• Constipation or trouble holding urine

What to Do If You Experience Any Symptoms

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek medical attention right away. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for people with testicular germ cell cancer.

References:

[1] - A painless lump in the testicle is the most common sign; Swelling of the testicle, with or without pain; A feeling of weight in the testicles; A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin (6). [5] - constipation or trouble holding pee if the tumor is in the pelvis · leg weakness if the tumor presses on the ... [6] - A painless lump in the testicle, which is the most common sign; Swelling of the testicle, with or without pain; A feeling of weight in the testicles; A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin (7). [7] - Aug 14, 2024 — Testicular cancer may cause no symptoms. The most common symptom is a painless swelling or a lump in a testicle or a change in size or shape. [9] - Nov 2, 2022 — Testicular germ cell cancer · pain in your lower abdomen or groin · painless lump in your testicle; ...

Diagnosing Testicular Germ Cell Cancer: A Comprehensive Overview

Testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC) is a type of cancer that affects the testicles, and early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. The diagnostic process involves a combination of physical examination, imaging tests, blood tests, and sometimes surgery.

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical exam by a healthcare provider can help identify any abnormalities in the testicles, such as lumps or swelling [1].
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI scans are used to visualize the internal structures of the body and detect any tumors or abnormalities [2][3]. A high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis is often performed once a diagnosis of testicular cancer is made [4].
• Blood Tests: Blood tests can help identify certain proteins in the blood that are associated with TGCC, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) [5]. These tumor markers can be used to monitor the progression of the disease and response to treatment.
• Surgical Biopsy: In some cases, a surgical biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis of TGCC. This involves removing a small sample of tissue from the testicle for examination under a microscope [6].

Staging and Treatment

The stage of the cancer is determined through imaging tests and blood tests, which helps guide treatment decisions. Active surveillance, chemotherapy, and surgery are some of the treatment options available for TGCC [7]. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, overall health, and patient preferences.

References

[1] May 17, 2018 — Learn how doctors diagnose testicular cancer with physical examinations, ultrasounds, blood tests, and other imaging tests. [2] Health history and physical exam · Ultrasound · Complete blood count (CBC) · Blood chemistry tests · Tumour marker tests · Removal of the testicle · Lymph node ... [3] by DC Baird · 2018 · Cited by 196 — Staging through chest radiography, chemistry panel, liver function tests, and tumor markers guides treatment. Active surveillance, chemotherapy, ... [4] Jul 13, 2023 — Once the diagnosis of testicular cancer is made, a high-resolution computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis and a chest x-ray are ... [5] by E Rajpert-De Meyts · 2023 · Cited by 13 — Surgical testicular biopsy is currently the only sure diagnostic procedure for GCNIS diagnosis (119). Experience in the use of needle biopsies ... [6] CT scan of chest, abdomen, and pelvis, with oral and intravenous contrast · Ultrasound of the testes (if testes tumor) or abdomen (if ovarian) · blood tests for ... [7] by MJ Murray · 2016 · Cited by 199 — Testicular GCTs are broadly classified into seminomas and nonseminomatous GCTs (NSGCTs). The conventional serum protein tumour markers α-fetoprotein (AFP), ...

Treatment Options for Testicular Germ Cell Cancer

Testicular germ cell cancer, also known as testicular cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the testicles in men. The treatment options for this condition have evolved over time and now include various combinations of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is commonly used to treat testicular cancer. It involves using medications to kill cancer cells throughout the body. According to search result [4], chemotherapy can save the lives of about 7 out of every 10 people with advanced testicular cancer.
• Cisplatin-based regimens: Cisplatin-based chemotherapy is a common treatment for testicular cancer. This regimen involves using cisplatin, etoposide, and bleomycin to kill cancer cells. According to search result [5], this combination of medications can cure up to 80 percent of patients with disseminated GCTs.
• Surgery: Surgery is often used in conjunction with chemotherapy or radiation therapy to treat testicular cancer. The type of surgery performed depends on the stage and type of cancer.

Common Chemotherapy Regimens

Several chemotherapy regimens are commonly used to treat testicular cancer, including:

• Bleomycin etoposide and cisplatin regimen: This combination of medications is often used to treat relapsed germ cell tumors.
• Cisplatin and etoposide for relapsed germ cell tumors: This regimen involves using cisplatin and etoposide to kill cancer cells in patients with relapsed germ cell tumors.
• TIP (Paclitaxel, Ifosfamide, and Cisplatin) regimen: This combination of medications is often used to treat relapsed testicular germ cell cancer.

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy can cause a range of side effects, including:

• Temporary infertility: According to search result [6], chemotherapy can result in temporary infertility in most men.
• Hair loss: Some patients may experience hair loss due to chemotherapy.
• Nausea and vomiting: Patients may experience nausea and vomiting after receiving chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Testicular germ cell cancer is a type of cancer that affects the testicles in men. The treatment options for this condition include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Chemotherapy is commonly used to treat testicular cancer and can save the lives of about 7 out of every 10 people with advanced testicular cancer. However, it can also cause side effects such as temporary infertility, hair loss, and nausea and vomiting.

References:

[4] Search result 4 [5] Search result 5 [6] Search result 6