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Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that develops in one of the male reproductive organs, the testicles, and is particularly common among young men. It most often occurs in men aged 15–35 and responds very well to treatment. With early diagnosis, it is almost completely curable. Healme Clinic offers reliable healthcare services with modern technology and expert staff in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of testicular cancer.

Anatomy and Function of the Testicles

The testicles are a pair of organs located inside the scrotum, a pouch-like structure in males. In addition to producing sperm, they secrete the hormone testosterone, which plays a vital role in the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics. Malignant tumors can develop as a result of cellular mutations in the testicles.

Types of Testicular Cancer

Testicular tumors usually originate from germ cells (reproductive cells). These tumors are divided into two main groups:

Seminomatous Tumors

Grow slowly

  • Usually spread at a later stage
  • Sensitive to radiotherapy
  • Common in young and middle-aged men

Non-seminomatous Tumors

  • Include embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumor, choriocarcinoma, and teratoma
  • Spread more quickly
  • Usually treated with chemotherapy

Risk Factors

Healme Clinic creates personalized assessments to facilitate early diagnosis. The main risk factors include:

  • Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism): When the testicle does not descend into the scrotum at birth
  • Family history: Having a first-degree relative with testicular cancer
  • Personal history: A previous history of testicular cancer increases the risk of developing it in the other testicle
  • Genetic disorders: Such as Klinefelter syndrome

Symptoms

Testicular cancer most often manifests as a painless lump. Healme Clinic takes quick action in the early identification of symptoms.

Common Symptoms:

  • A lump or swelling in the testicle
  • A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
  • Pain in the lower abdomen or groin
  • Testicular pain (rare)
  • Breast enlargement or tenderness (in hormone-producing tumors)

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. Healme Clinic uses the most advanced technologies in diagnosing testicular cancer.

Physical Examination

A urologist manually examines the testicles.

Ultrasound

Used to determine whether a mass in the testicle is cystic or solid. It is the most commonly used imaging method.

Tumor Markers

Blood tests measure certain substances to assist in diagnosis:

  • AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
  • hCG (Human chorionic gonadotropin)
  • LDH (Lactate dehydrogenase)

Imaging Techniques

  • CT (Computed Tomography): Assesses spread to the abdomen and lungs

  • MRI: Used in certain cases

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the tumor type, stage, and the patient's overall condition. Healme Clinic applies personalized and multidisciplinary treatment protocols.

Surgical Treatment (Orchiectomy)

This is the initial and most fundamental step. The cancerous testicle is removed from the scrotum and is usually performed at the time of diagnosis.

Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND)

If the cancer has spread to lymph nodes, they are surgically removed.

Chemotherapy

Widely used, especially in non-seminomatous tumors. Cisplatin-based protocols are commonly preferred.

Radiotherapy

Seminomas are highly sensitive to radiotherapy. Depending on the extent of spread, it may be applied to the abdominal area.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Regular follow-up is essential to detect any recurrence after treatment. Healme Clinic provides long-term follow-up services to its patients.

Follow-Up Plan:

  • First 2 years: Check-ups, blood tests, and imaging every 3 months
  • 3rd year: Check-ups every 6 months
  • 4th and 5th year: Annual check-ups

Psychological and Reproductive Support

Hormonal changes, sexual health, and reproductive capacity may be affected after treatment. Healme Clinic offers psychological counseling and reproductive health support.

Sperm Banking

Recommended for individuals who plan to have children before treatment.

Testosterone Replacement

May be applied to patients experiencing hormone deficiency after surgery.

Conclusion

Testicular cancer is a common disease among young men and can be completely cured with early diagnosis. Being aware of the risk factors and seeking professional support without delay upon noticing symptoms is of vital importance. Healme Clinic is a reliable healthcare center with a scientific approach, experienced staff, and personalized care in testicular cancer treatment.