Surgical Options
- Radical Inguinal Orchiectomy: This surgical procedure involves the removal of the affected testicle through an incision in the groin. It is typically the first step in the treatment of testicular cancer and aids in confirming the diagnosis. Preservation of fertility can be considered before the procedure if future family planning is a concern.
- Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND): This procedure involves the removal of lymph nodes located in the retroperitoneum (the space behind the abdominal organs) to prevent the potential spread of cancer. It is often performed when there’s a high risk of cancer spread to these nodes.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy utilises high-energy beams, like X-rays, to target and destroy cancer cells. It’s often used to treat seminomas, a specific type of testicular cancer, especially when the disease has spread to regional lymph nodes.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth. Administered either orally or intravenously, chemotherapy circulates throughout the body and is typically chosen when testicular cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Various regimens with combinations of drugs may be employed depending on the type and stage of the cancer.
High-dose Chemotherapy and Stem Cell Transplant
For cases where testicular cancer is resistant to traditional chemotherapy regimens or has recurred, high-dose chemotherapy followed by a stem cell transplant might be an option. Stem cells, typically taken from the patient’s own blood before chemotherapy, are reintroduced post-treatment to aid in the recovery of the bone marrow.
Surveillance
For early-stage testicular cancer or cases where there’s a high likelihood of cure with initial treatment, surveillance is a viable option. This involves regular doctor visits, imaging tests, and blood tests to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence. Immediate treatment is initiated if any evidence of return is detected.