The male reproductive system is composed mainly of the testes and penis. These organs can malfunction and lead to all sorts of problems. In some instances, the condition can be potentially life-threatening, while in other cases, the disorder can be promptly managed. Fortunately, the diseases and disorders of the male reproductive system have specific treatment options.
Testicular Cancer
MedlinePlus indicates that testicular cancer is a type of potentially life-threatening condition that begins in the testes, the region where sperm is produced. It says that symptoms of testicular cancer include a lump or swelling in either testicle, a dull ache in the lower part of the stomach or back, an enlarged testicle and testicular pain or heaviness. Also, enlargement of the breast tissue can also be a sign of testicular cancer.
MedlinePlus states that testicular cancer typically strikes men between 15 and 35 years of age.
Treating testicular cancer involves surgical removing the cancerous tumor and using high dose radiation energy to kill the testicular cancer cells. Chemotherapy medications such as cisplatin and bleomycin may also be used to manage testicular cancer.
Unfortunately, the exact cause for testicular cancer is not known. Risk factors for developing testicular cancer involve abnormal testicular development and having a history of testicular cancer and an undescended testicle. Also, having Klinefelter's syndrome (an inherited developmental delay disorder) can also increase an individual's risk for testicular cancer.
Penile Cancer
Penile cancer is a type of cancer that starts at the penis. MedlinePlus indicates that specific symptoms of penile cancer include a painless sore on the penis, genital lesions and pain or bleeding from the penis.
At this time, the cause for penile cancer is unknown. Risk factors for developing penile cancer include smegma, a foul and cheese-like substance found below the penis' foreskin.
Treating penile cancer also involves chemotherapy, radiation and surgery to eliminate the penile cancer cells.
Priapism
Priapism refers to a painful and prolonged erection, says the Mayo Clinic. It states that priapism is common in boys between five and 10 years old and in men between 20 and 50 years old.
Priapism may be due to such diseases as sickle cell anemia and leukemia. It may also be due to such prescription medications as sildenafil, fluoxetine, diazepam and warfarin. Blood clots, spinal cord injury and cocaine are some other causes of priapism.
Treating priapism involves draining the penis with a needle (aspiration) and taking medications such as phenylephrine. Surgery may be necessary to place a shunt into the penis.
