2024-02-14 19:10:19
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Testicular cancer can occur accidentally, without any risk factor. Self-monitoring is particularly important, as free early detection by a doctor is only offered from the age of 45.
Testicular cancer is a malignant disease that particularly affects men between the ages of 25 and 45. Every year, around 4,060 patients in Germany are diagnosed with cancer. In contrast to other tumor diseases, those affected are on average still very young – the average age at onset is 38 years. However, the probability of being completely cured of the disease is high, unlike prostate cancer. It is all the more important that men take possible signs seriously and go to the doctor if they have corresponding symptoms – even if going there is still a shame for many. Regular self-checks are also important and can make a decisive contribution to early detection.
Possible indication of testicular cancer: Look out for eleven signs of the disease
Testicular cancer develops in the tissue of the male testicle. In most of those affected, the tumor arises from the germ cell tissue of the testicle, which produces sperm cells. These tumors are also known as germ cell tumors. © fotototo/Imago
Testicular cancer usually occurs in one of the affected man’s testicles. The cells in the tissue multiply so uncontrollably that they can also grow into surrounding organs and damage or destroy them. Men should follow the recommendation of the German Cancer Society (DKG) Pay attention to the following alarm signals:
- A hardening in the testicle that can be felt and does not cause pain.
- A hardening on the surface of the testicles.
- A swelling in the testicle area.
- Pain in the testicular area.
- Feeling of heaviness in the testicles.
- One-sided pulling in the testicles or groin area.
- Accumulation of fluid in the testicle.
- An inflammatory change in the testicles that does not improve with medication
- Pain up to the chest.
- If the disease is advanced, back pain can also occur, which is caused by enlarged lymph nodes in the abdomen. Back pain in women can also be a sign of cervical cancer.
- Infertility, as the tumor itself can impact sperm production and quality.
Testicular cancer and family planning
Since, on average, younger men develop testicular cancer and the disease can be associated with infertility, those affected who have not yet completed family planning should seek medical advice about the option of freezing their sperm (sperm cryopreservation).
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Testicular cancer: disease progression and prognosis
Testicular cancer often begins with local spread within a testicle. In about three out of four cases, the malignant tumor is still limited to the testicle at the time of diagnosis. As the carcinoma continues to grow, it can break through the testicular capsule and invade surrounding tissue such as the epididymis or spermatic cord.
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Through the involvement of lymphatic vessels, cancer cells can also reach the nearby lymph nodes along the abdominal aorta. Once the tumor cells enter the bloodstream, they can spread via the bloodstream to other tissues and organs and form metastases, typically in the lungs. Despite the formation of metastases, according to the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) However, most men with testicular cancer have a good chance of recovery.
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This article only contains general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication. It in no way replaces a visit to the doctor. Our editorial team is not allowed to answer individual questions about medical conditions.
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