Testicular cancer: should pay attention to these symptoms

In Germany, more and more men are diagnosed with testicular cancer, according to experts at the Robert Koch Institute. There are about 4,700 annually. In comparison to other cancers, the number of victims seems low though at first glance. But: Testicular tumors are among 20 - to 40-year-old males the most common cancer. Testicular cancer even recognize: This symptoms men should look.

Testicular cancer occurs most often on one side

The testes are composed of different cell types that make up each can develop malignant tumors. 90 percent of germ cell tumors start from the tissue, experts say the German Cancer Society. They develop either from germ cells (seminoma) or are composed of several tissue types of the testis (non-seminomas). Almost all patients on the cancer occurs in only one of the two testicles.
Malalignment increases the risk of disease

Why has the number of patients with testicular cancer since the 80s has about doubled, is still unclear. The diet may play an important role, suggests physicians. The exact causes of cancer are not known. But there are certain risk factors that may favor an outbreak. Besides genetic factors, this is especially the undescended testicle: One or both testicles are not in such a case in the scrotum.

Symptoms can feel for themselves

That something is wrong with the testicle can usually affected even notice. Palpable lumps or swellings are a first alarm signal. This can be painless or painful. A drawing or heaviness in the testicle or groin are also typical symptoms. Often occur later on in the back and pain in the mammary glands. In order to detect the disease as early as possible, doctors advise on self-examination: men over 27 years should feel their testicles every six months for changes.
Testicular cancer is almost always curable

If the cancer spreads further and affects other organs, but can occur a variety of other ailments. Thus, it is not far, it is important to go with abnormalities of the testes to the doctor immediately. Because early-stage testicular cancer can be cured almost always, the German Cancer Society. In advanced stages, the prognosis is still good, but the treatment is lengthy.
Potency is not usually affected
On suspicion of cancer, the urologist first scans from the testicles. For more information on whether a disease is present, provide a ultrasound and a blood test. A definite diagnosis, the physician, but only with a tissue sample (biopsy). Depending on the type of tumor and its spread, there are several treatment options: Almost always, the affected testicle removed, it will follow the usually radiotherapy or chemotherapy. The fear of many men, with only one testicle to be impotent or sterile, is unfounded in most cases. This often occurs only during therapy. Has completed the treatment, most patients lead a normal life.