Testicular cancer

Question 1

Define testicular cancer

Answer 1

A malignancy originating in the testicles

Question 2

What is the most common type of testicular cancer?

Answer 2

Seminomas

Question 3

What is the epidemiology of testicular cancer?

Answer 3

Very rare

But most common solid tumors diagnosed in men aged 20-34

Question 4

What are some of the risk factors for testicular cancer?

Answer 4

1. Fhx of testicular cancer
2. Gonadal dysgenesis
3. Testicular atrophy

Question 5

What are the presenting symptoms of testicular cancer?

Answer 5

1. testicular swelling or discomfort
2. Back pain - para-aortic lymph node enlargement
3. Short of breath - lung metastasis

Question 6

What are the signs of testicular cancer on physical examination?

Answer 6

1. Painless lump in testicles
2. Hydrocoele
3. Lymphadenopathy
4. Gynaecomastia (tumour producing hCG)

Question 7

What are the appropriate investigations for testicular cancer?

Answer 7

1. Bloods - tumour markers (b-hCG, AFP)
2. Urine pregnancy test (positive in hCG producing tumour)
3. USS of testicles
4. CT pelvis and abdomen