Testicular Cancer Flashcards
What is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy in men aged 15-45 years, representing about 1% of adult cancers.
What is the 5-year survival rate for testicular cancer if diagnosed early?
The 5-year survival rate is approximately 95% if diagnosed early.
What are the primary histological classifications of testicular cancer?
Testicular cancers are primarily classified as germ cell tumours (seminomas and non-seminomas) and non-germ cell tumours.
What is cryptorchidism, and how does it relate to testicular cancer risk?
Cryptorchidism is an undescended testicle; it increases the risk of testicular cancer fourfold for unilateral and tenfold for bilateral cases.
How does a family history affect the risk of testicular cancer?
A family history, especially in first-degree male relatives, increases the risk by sixfold.
What genetic syndromes are associated with an increased risk of testicular cancer?
Klinefelter syndrome and Kallmann syndrome are associated with an increased risk.
What is the most common presenting symptom of testicular cancer?
A unilateral painless testicular lump is the most common presenting symptom.
What symptoms might indicate metastatic testicular cancer?
Symptoms can include unintentional weight loss, back pain (due to skeletal metastasis), and dyspnoea (due to lung metastases).
How does a testicular tumour typically present on physical examination?
As a unilateral, painless, irregular, firm, fixed testicular lump that does not transilluminate.
What are common differential diagnoses for a testicular mass?
Differential diagnoses include epididymo-orchitis, hydrocele, varicocele, and inguinal hernia.
Which tumour marker is elevated in 30-50% of non-seminomatous germ cell tumours and 5-10% of seminomas?
Beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (Beta HCG).
Which tumour marker is raised in non-seminomatous germ cell tumours but not in seminomas?
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP).
What imaging modality is first-line for evaluating a suspected testicular tumour?
Scrotal ultrasound is the first-line imaging modality.
What is the standard initial surgical treatment for testicular cancer?
Radical inguinal orchidectomy is the standard initial surgical treatment.
What is the purpose of sperm banking in patients diagnosed with testicular cancer?
Sperm banking is offered due to the potential impact of treatment on fertility.
What are the main components of the staging process for testicular cancer?
Staging involves imaging (CT scans of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis) and serum tumour marker assessment.
What is the role of chemotherapy in testicular cancer treatment?
Chemotherapy is used in cases with metastatic disease or high-risk features.
What are potential complications of testicular cancer treatment?
Complications can include hypogonadism, infertility, secondary malignancies, peripheral neuropathy, and surgical complications such as bleeding or infection.
How does prior testicular cancer affect the risk of developing a contralateral tumour?
It increases the risk by eightfold for developing a tumour in the opposite testicle.
What is the significance of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in testicular cancer?
LDH serves as a surrogate marker for tumour volume and necrosis.
What is the typical age range for the peak incidence of testicular cancer?
The peak incidence is in men aged 15-45 years.
What prenatal exposure is associated with an increased risk of testicular cancer?
Prenatal exposure to oestrogen is associated with an increased risk.
What is the importance of early detection in testicular cancer?
Early detection significantly improves prognosis, with a 95% 5-year survival rate if diagnosed early.
What is the global trend in testicular cancer incidence?
Testicular cancer rates are increasing globally.
What is the recommended follow-up after treatment for testicular cancer?
Regular follow-up with physical examinations, tumour marker assessments, and imaging studies to monitor for recurrence.
