Testicular self-examination (TSE)
Testicular self-examination (TSE) is a personal health practice that involves manually checking the testicles for any abnormalities, which can aid in the early detection of testicular disorders, including testicular cancer. This type of cancer is particularly prevalent among younger men between the ages of 15 and 34, making TSE an important screening tool. Performing TSE monthly can help individuals become familiar with their testicular area, allowing them to identify any changes such as lumps, swelling, or hardness that may indicate a problem.
The examination is best conducted after a warm bath or shower to relax the scrotum. The procedure involves standing in front of a mirror, inspecting the scrotum, and gently rolling each testicle between the fingers and thumbs to check for any irregularities. It is normal for one testicle to be larger than the other, and any detected lumps should prompt a consultation with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. Importantly, when testicular cancer is caught early, it has a high survival rate. TSE carries no risk if performed carefully and without pain, making it a safe practice for men to adopt as part of their health routine.
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Testicular self-examination (TSE)
DEFINITION: Testicular self-examination (TSE) is a procedure done by the patient as a screening tool for early diagnosis of any testicular disorders. The exam is performed by manually examining the scrotum and testes.
Cancers diagnosed:Testicular cancer
Why performed: A self-exam of the testicles is an effective way of becoming familiar with this area of the body, thus enabling the early detection of abnormalities that can lead to testicular cancer. It can be the first line of defense against cancer because testicular cancer can occur with virtually no obvious symptoms or pain. Testicular cancer primarily develops in younger men, and it is the most common form of cancer developed by men between the ages of fifteen and thirty-four. Therefore, monthly performance of the testicular self-exam is recommended for men over age fourteen. When detected early, testicular cancer has a 99 percent survival rate in younger men.
Patient preparation: Because heat relaxes the scrotum, a TSE is best performed after a warm bath or shower.
Steps of the procedure: The first step in TSE is to stand in front of a mirror and observe any possible swelling on the scrotal skin. Next, the patient should elevate one leg for better access and examine each testicle with both hands. With the index and middle fingers under the testicle and the thumbs placed on top, the testicle should be rolled gently between the thumbs and fingers. This process should not be painful, but if pain or tenderness is experienced, the patient should notify a physician. The testicles should feel firm and round but not hard, and it is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other. It is important to feel for any lumps on the testicle, which can range in size from a pea to a golf ball and are frequently very hard. If any lumps are detected, then it is critical for the patient to see a physician as soon as possible to determine if the lumps are benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
The next step in the TSE is to locate the epididymis, a soft, tubelike structure behind the testicle that collects and carries sperm. It is important to become familiar with this structure to avoid mistaking it for a lump or mass. The TSE should be performed by men on a monthly basis.
After the procedure: No aftercare is required.
Risks: There are no risks with this procedure if the patient performs the exam without inflicting pain.
Results: If any abnormalities (swelling, change in color, lumps, hardness, pain) are detected during the testicular self-exam, a physician (urologist) should be consulted. Generally, the physician can confirm or rule out any suspicions through an exam and ultrasound.
Bibliography
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