Should there be any abnormality or concern a doctor should be seen as soon as possible. It is important not to wait a week or two and hope that it will go away, testicular cancer is easier to treat successfully if it is detected early. A lump may be due to an infection or a cyst and most lumps are not cancerous, but the earlier a diagnosis is made, the sooner treatment can begin. Surgical removal of the affected testis (orchidectomy) is the normal treatment for testicular cancer. An artificial testicle can be placed in the scrotum during the operation to give a normal appearance if desired.
Chemotherapy drugs are often given together with surgery, particularly if the cancer has spread beyond the testicles. Chemotherapy drugs may be taken by mouth or injection.
Radiotherapy may also be used, but unlike chemotherapy, radiation is focused to treat just the area of the cancer.
The outcome for testicular cancer is very good especially if caught early, underlying the necessity for regular self-examination and a visit to the doctor should anything abnormal be found.
