Part of the male reproductive system, the scrotum is a loose pouch of skin located underneath the penis. Although testicular cancer is considered to be relatively uncommon, it is still the most frequently diagnosed type of cancer in American males between the ages of 15 and Therefore, it is important for all boys and men to learn to identify the warning signs.
Take an opportunity to do so during the month of April, which has been designated as Testicular Cancer Awareness Month as an educational initiative by the Testicular Cancer Society. Knowing the signs of testicular cancer can improve the likelihood of detecting the condition in its earliest stages , when more treatment options are generally available.
This is especially important because testicular cancer is usually considered to be highly curable. Here are the five most common signs to watch for:. In boys, testicular cancer can also cause early signs of puberty, such as accelerated voice deepening and the growth of facial and body hair. If a person is not feeling any pain or discomfort, they may not require treatment. Anyone with a testicle lump should regularly check it at home to make sure that it does not get any bigger or change shape.
Cysts will usually go away on their own. If the cyst is painful, applying a warm washcloth can help reduce swelling. If a cyst becomes infected, a person may need medication to treat the infection. Doctors can remove a cyst under local anesthetic. However, doctors do not usually recommend this as cysts are unlikely to cause health problems. A cyst can also come back in the same place. People with a varicocele or hydrocele who are not experiencing any symptoms are unlikely to need treatment.
The fluid sac where a hydrocele has formed can be repaired, or sometimes, removed. Someone with a varicocele might also consider surgery. The procedure involves stopping the blood flow to the swollen veins, which allows the veins to shrink. Doctors usually treat epididymitis with antibiotics for the underlying infection. A person can take pain relieving medication or apply a cold pack wrapped in fabric to the testicles to help with pain and swelling.
A person will need treatment if a lump in the testicle is found to be cancerous. Treatment will be different depending on the stage of the cancer. Doctors use radiation therapy and chemotherapy to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
A person may need surgery to remove a lump from the testicle. Sometimes, more than one treatment might be necessary. It may be necessary for a doctor to remove part or all of the testicle to diagnose cancer and prevent it from spreading. The testicle can often be replaced with an implant. This can affect fertility, so a person may be given the opportunity to save and store sperm before surgery. Look out for one or more of the following:. If you find a lump or swelling, or have any of the above signs, it's important to get it checked out by a doctor.
Read more about testicular lumps and swellings and testicular cancer. Read the answers to more questions about men's health. An enlargement of the blood vessels from the testicle called a varicocele.
A buildup of fluid in the membrane around the testicle called a hydrocele. An opening in the abdominal muscle called a hernia. Pain Infection. Injury Twisting If you are concerned about any changes you experience, please talk with your doctor. Types of Cancer. Testicular Cancer Guide. Net Guide Testicular Cancer. Medical Illustrations. Risk Factors. Symptoms and Signs.
Types of Treatment. About Clinical Trials. Latest Research. Coping with Treatment.
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