Precancerous condition of the testicle
There is one precancerous condition of the testicle – germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS). With this condition, changes to testicular cells make them more likely to develop into testicular cancer if not treated. But the condition is not yet cancer.
Germ cell neoplasia in situ
GCNIS is a precancerous condition that can develop in the testicle. It is also called intratubular germ cell neoplasia, unclassified, or sometimes called testicular intraepithelial neoplasia.
GCNIS is when germ cells in the seminiferous tubules change so they are no longer normal. The germ cells look like cancer cells, but they aren’t behaving like cancer cells yet. This means that they are not growing into the surrounding tissues (they are non-invasive).
GCNIS can develop into any type of germ cell tumour. About 5% of men with a germ cell tumour in one testicle will have GCNIS in the other testicle.
Risk factors
The following risk factors increase your chance of developing GCNIS:
- personal history of testicular cancer
- undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
- a birth defect where the genitals do not look normal (called ambiguous genitalia)
- abnormal shrinking of the testicles (called testicular atrophy)
- infertility
Symptoms
GCNIS usually doesn’t cause any symptoms because a lump does not form. But it may cause fertility problems in some cases.
Diagnosis
GCNIS is usually found during surgery to remove one or both testicles (called an orchiectomy). It can also be found when the doctor is looking for the cause of other problems.
GCNIS is diagnosed by a biopsy. A biopsy can be done as part of an orchiectomy. A biopsy may also be done to find the reason for other problems, such as infertility.
Treatments
Experts are trying to find the best ways to treat GCNIS. Currently, there are no standard treatments. Treatment is based on risk factors and each man’s needs and preferences.
Treatment options for GCNIS may include:
- watchful waiting
- orchiectomy
- radiation therapy