What is Spermatocytic Seminoma of the Testes?
Spermatocytic seminoma of the Testes is a rare type of cancer that arises from the testicular epithelium of the seminiferous tubules and consists of 4-7% of seminoma tumour cells. The tumour usually affects older people aged 50-60 years. Spermatocytic seminoma most often develops in both testicles. It shows a good prognosis (likely course of the disease) thus accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment can cause the tumour.Disease Causes
There is no known cause, but it is thought that certain genetic and hereditary mutations, as well as exposure to certain environmental factors, can cause immature spermatogonia (an early stage in the formation of sperm) to multiply or divide uncontrollably, which can result in the development of spermatocytic seminoma of the testicles.Signs and Symptoms
- Painless enlargement of the testes
- Swelling of the testes
- Palpable (felt able, touchable mass in the testes) in the scrotum)
- Feeling of heaviness in the testes
- Enlargement of breasts in males
- Pain in the back or groin region
- Change in the size or shape of the testes
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are- A physical examination of the pelvic area (hip) to see unusual changes in the scrotum, to asses any mass or lump in this area
- Imaging tests like scrotal ultrasonography (USG), CT-scan testis, CT-scan abdomen, CT scan chest, and brain to detect the tumour size, site and metastasis.
- Histopathology
- Tumour Biopsy