Question Title: Specific Questions Regarding Pathology of Testicular Cancer

I had two quick, hypothetical questions:

1. How fast do malignant tumors of the testicles tend to grow? Say I found a pea-sized lump, how long before I would notice it doubling in size? And generally, how long before metastasis occurs? I realize this is a broad question, but a general indication would suffice.

2. Where do malignant tumors tend to appear on the testis? Are they generally more common or confined to a particular region? It seems that they would be hard to detect near the head of the epididymis with TSE due to the natural lumpiness of the epididymis and the occurance of benign masses at this location, as well as the existence of vestigial structures. Any comments on the significance of a TSE finding near the epididymis versus on the front of the testicle?

Thank you,
Joe

Dear Joe:

Thanks for your questions and patience. The response to you questions is as follows:

Testicular cancers are relatively fast growing cancers. The calculated doubling time ranges from 10 to 30 days. The growth and metastatic potential depends upon the type of cancer. The metastasis usually occurs in less than 2 years.

Most such tumors arise in the testicles. Only 10 -15% of cancers involve the epididymis or cord. If you find any abnormal swelling in any part of the testis you should get it checked by a urologist.

Hope this information will help you. Best of luck.

This information is provided for general medical information purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. The Henry Ford Hospital Department of Urology has experience in the evaluation and treatments of problems as you describe. We would be most interested in helping you. You can reach us through our toll-free number 1-800-653-6568.

We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any x-rays (not just the reports) as well as any physicians' notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly.

Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-A.T.
*Keyword: Testicular tumor

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