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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) :

As men age, their prostate gland tends to enlarge, a common condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This enlargement can put pressure on the urethra and bladder, leading to urinary symptoms such as:

The testicles

The testicles are two small, oval-shaped organs located below the penis, enclosed in a skin pouch called the scrotum.

Image of the testicles (cruk)

Starting from puberty, the testicles begin producing sperm. Inside the testicle, small tubes come together to form the epididymis, a single tube that becomes wider as it exits the testicle. This wider tube is known as the spermatic cord.

The spermatic cord leads to a short passage called the ejaculatory duct, which opens into the urethra, the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body through the penis.

 Testosterone:

 The testicles produce the hormone testosterone, which is responsible for developing male characteristics such as:
  1. A deeper voice
  2. Facial hair growth
  3. Increased muscle mass
  4. The ability to achieve an erection
  5. Male sexual drive (libido)

Where does testicular cancer start:

 The testicles consist of various cell types, and the kind of cancer you have depends on the specific cell where it begins. Most testicular cancers arise from germ cells, which are responsible for producing sperm. Doctors classify germ cell cancers into two main types:
  • Seminoma
  • Non-seminoma
Testicular cancer and the lymph nodes:  Lymph nodes are a part of the lymphatic system that spans the entire body. They, along with lymph vessels, contain a yellow fluid known as lymph. This fluid circulates through the lymphatic system, collecting waste products and draining into veins for waste removal. Cancer can spread to lymph nodes, causing them to enlarge. In testicular cancer, it’s common for the disease to spread to lymph nodes located at the back of the abdomen, known as retroperitoneal lymph nodes. These retroperitoneal lymph nodes are situated behind the intestines and in front of the spine. They lie next to the main blood vessels in the abdomen, the aorta, and the inferior vena cava. Image of the lymph nodes with testicles Who gets it: Younger men are more likely to get testicular cancer. Trans women can also develop testicular cancer if they haven’t had an operation to remove their testicles (orchidectomy). Men in their early 30s are the most likely to get it. It then becomes less common as men get older.

– Increased frequency of urination during the day or night (nocturia)

– Difficulty urinating, including a weaker stream, incomplete bladder emptying, and straining to begin urination

– Urgent need to urinate

BPH does not turn into cancer. However, it is possible to have an enlarged prostate and also have cancerous areas within the prostate gland.

If you experience symptoms of BPH, it’s important to consult your GP. These symptoms do not necessarily indicate prostate cancer, but they should be evaluated. During the assessment, you may undergo a blood test called a PSA test, which is one of the methods doctors use to help diagnose prostate cancer.

Localised Prostate Cancer:

Localised prostate cancer refers to cancer that is confined within the prostate gland and has not spread to other parts of the body. This stage of prostate cancer is often detected through routine screenings, such as a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or a digital rectal exam (DRE).

In the early stages, localized prostate cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can include:

– Frequent urination, especially at night

– Difficulty starting or stopping urination

– Weak or interrupted urine flow

– Pain or burning sensation during urination

– Blood in the urine or semen

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other non-cancerous conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or infections. Therefore, experiencing these symptoms does not necessarily mean you have prostate cancer, but they should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Diagnosis of Locally advanced Prostate Cancer

If locally advanced prostate cancer is suspected, your doctor may recommend several tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the cancer: PSA(Prostate Specific Antigen), DRE(Digital Rectal Exam),Prostate Biopsy, and/or Imaging test such as MRI or Ultrasound.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

The prognosis for localized prostate cancer is generally favorable, especially when detected early. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor for any signs of cancer recurrence or progression. Your healthcare team will develop a personalized follow-up plan to ensure the best possible outcome.

Localized prostate cancer is a condition with a high potential for successful treatment, particularly when diagnosed early. If you have any concerns or symptoms related to prostate health, it’s important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Early detection and timely intervention can make a significant difference in managing prostate cancer effectively.



Understanding Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer:

Locally advanced prostate cancer refers to cancer that has spread beyond the prostate gland to nearby tissues but has not reached distant organs. This stage indicates a more significant progression than localized prostate cancer but remains within the pelvic region.

Symptoms of Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer

Men with locally advanced prostate cancer may experience symptoms such as:

– Difficulty urinating or weak urine flow

– Blood in the urine or semen

– Painful urination or ejaculation

– Persistent pain in the pelvic area, hips, or lower back

– Swelling in the legs due to lymph node involvement

Diagnosis of Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer

If locally advanced prostate cancer is suspected, your doctor may recommend several tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the cancer: PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen), DRE (Digital Rectal Exam), Prostate Biopsy, and/or Imaging test such as MRI.

Prognosis and Management

The prognosis for locally advanced prostate cancer varies based on individual factors such as the cancer’s aggressiveness, the patient’s overall health, and response to treatment. With advancements in treatment options, many men manage the condition effectively for several years.





Follow-Up Care

Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring the cancer’s progression and managing any side effects of treatment. Your healthcare team will develop a personalized plan to track PSA levels, conduct imaging tests, and adjust treatments as necessary.

Locally advanced prostate cancer presents more challenges than its localized counterpart, but with early detection and a comprehensive treatment approach, it can be effectively managed. If you have any symptoms or concerns about prostate health, it’s vital to consult with your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and timely intervention.

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Daignosis

If you have any symptoms, your first step is usually to visit your GP. They will discuss your symptoms with you and conduct an examination. Based on their findings,

Treatment options

A team of healthcare professionals (multidisciplinary team) will determine your treatment plan. Most people undergo surgery to remove the affected