The National Cancer Institute defines testicles or testes as a pair of male sex glands that are responsible to the production of sperm and the main source of the hormone testosterone in men. Testicular cancer occurs in the testes, located inside the scrotum. According to the Mayo Clinic, testicular cancer is rare, but it is the most frequent cancer in American males ages 15 to 34. The Mayo Clinic further says that even though testicular cancer has spread, it can still be treated. Several complications of the disease are common.
Heart Problems
According to the Annie Appleseed Project, treatments for testicular cancer have been successful, but they have been shown to have adverse effects on health, especially to the heart. Dr. Dirk Strumberg led German research that said changes in metabolism and hormones, such as lowered levels of testosterone, cause an individual to be susceptible to cardiovascular ailments.
Infertility
Medline Plus states that infertility can result when both testicles are removed. If the person is of childbearing age, there are methods that can be used to save the sperm at a later date. According to Dr. William K. Oh of UpToDate Patient Preview, radiation and chemotherapy may cause a decrease in the production of sperm and may cause infertility. The storage process of sperm is called semen cryopreservation. UptoDate reports that this involves storing the sperm at a very low temperature.
Complications from Chemotherapy
UptoDate Patient Preview states that chemotherapy can have short-term and long-term effects to the patient. Short-term effects may include fatigue, hair loss and nausea or vomiting. UptoDate Patient Preview also states that a low blood cell count may occur during the first few weeks of chemotherapy, making the patient more prone to infection. Long-term problems include damaging the kidneys and nerves, and lung scarring. The Mayo Clinic says that there is no definite way to prevent testicular cancer. However, it is recommended to perform regular testicle self-examinations. The best time to examine the testicles is after a warm bath or shower because the scrotum is relaxed and it is much easier to find something abnormal.
