In recent times, there have been numerous reports of men claiming to have taken a pregnancy test and getting a positive result. While doing this as a practical joke might seem funny, it can also be a cause for concern. This is because it has been found that a positive pregnancy test result for males does not indicate prostate cancer as previously thought, but rather testicular cancer. In this post, we will be diving into the factors linking a positive pregnancy test to testicular cancer, how testicular cancer is diagnosed and treated, as well as ways to prevent it.
Why Can a Man Get a Positive Pregnancy Test Result?
A pregnancy test looks for the presence of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) in a person’s urine. Ordinarily, hCG is produced by the female placenta following implantation. However, in rare cases, men with testicular cancer can also produce hCG. Specifically, within non-seminomers germ cell tumors, there is a type of tumor called Chorocarcinoma. Chorocarcinoma cells contain synchotrophoblast, which produces hCG, and this leads to a positive result on a pregnancy test.
How Is Testicular Cancer Diagnosed?
Testicular cancer can be diagnosed through various means, including physical examination, blood tests, and imaging exams. One of the most common ways to diagnose testicular cancer is by feeling for a lump or mass in either testicle during a physical exam. Testicular cancer is usually painless, and the lump is often the only sign that there is an issue. An ultrasound may also be performed to confirm the presence of a mass and determine its characteristics, such as size and location. Blood tests may be performed to measure the levels of tumor markers such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and hCG. Higher than normal levels of these markers can indicate the presence of testicular cancer.
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Different Types of Testicular Cancer
There are two major types of testicular cancers: Seminomas and Nonseminoma germ cell tumors. Seminomas typically grow slowly, are more sensitive to radiation, and are less likely to spread beyond the testicle. Nonseminoma germ cell tumors, on the other hand, tend to grow more quickly and are less sensitive to radiation. Within Nonseminomas, there are several types of tumors, including Chorocarcinoma, Embryonal carcinoma, Teratoma, and Yolk sac tumor. As previously mentioned, Chorocarcinoma tumors are more likely to produce hCG, leading to a positive pregnancy test result in men.
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Treating Testicular Cancer
Treatment for testicular cancer depends on various factors, including the type of cancer, stage, and overall health of the patient. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these. In some cases, the testicle may need to be surgically removed in a procedure called a radical inguinal orchiectomy. This is the most effective way of removing the cancer completely. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be necessary. Working with a doctor who specializes in treating testicular cancer is crucial in determining the right treatment plan.
Preventing Testicular Cancer
While testicular cancer is not entirely preventable, there are ways to reduce the risk of developing it. One way is by performing monthly self-exams of your testicles. This should be done in the shower and involves holding the testicle and palpating all around, feeling the epididymis, and comparing to the other side. Any abnormalities or lumps should be checked out by a doctor. It is also recommended for men between the ages of 20-40 years to undergo monthly self-exams. It is also useful to avoid exposure to radiation, toxins, and high levels of estrogen.
Conclusion
Testicular cancer is highly treatable, with only a small percentage of all cases resulting in death. Understanding how it can lead to a positive pregnancy test and the different types of cancers is important in detecting it early and increasing the chances of a favorable outcome. Performing monthly self-exams, staying away from hazards that increase the risk of developing testicular cancer, and consulting with a doctor when any abnormalities arise is essential in preventing and managing testicular cancer.
