How to Treat Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers that men get. Testicular cancer originates in the testes of the body; the testes are located in the scrotum and are responsible for producing sperm cells. If caught early enough, testicular cancer can be successfully treated.

Instructions

1. Decide with your doctor about the best course of treatment. An oncologist can discuss the risks and success rates of each treatment option. You may need to get several therapies to treat the testicular cancer.

2. Get the cancerous testicle removed. This is the most common way that testicular cancer is treated. In some cases, both testicles may need to be surgically removed.

3. Undergo radiation therapy or chemotherapy. During radiation therapy, x-rays or other sources of radiation are used to fight the cancer. In chemotherapy, medications are administered to kill the cancer cells.

4. Inquire about a bone marrow transplant. This is one of the newest methods used to treat testicular cancer. Bone marrow is taken out and treated with chemo to kill the cancer cells. The bone marrow is then transplanted back into your body.

5. Get follow up care. You may opt to get a prosthetic placed at the site of the removed testicle. Also, you need regular exams to ensure that you remain cancer free.

Tips & Warnings

• Some men who have testicular cancer opt to preserve their sperm at a sperm bank prior to going through treatments.

• You may become sterile as a result of the testicular cancer surgery. Talk to your doctor about this risk prior to surgery.