Don’t Ignore the Symptoms of Testicular Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer most often associated with the lining of the lungs. Each year, roughly 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma, and in the overwhelming majority of cases, the cause is long-term exposure to asbestos.
While many people think of mesothelioma strictly as a lung disease, it can also develop in other parts of the body—including the testicles. Testicular mesothelioma is rare, but its symptoms should never be ignored.
What Is Testicular Mesothelioma?
Testicular mesothelioma affects the tunica vaginalis, the thin membrane surrounding the testes. It accounts for less than 5% of all mesothelioma diagnoses, making it one of the rarest forms of the disease.
Like other types of mesothelioma, testicular mesothelioma is almost exclusively linked to asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once widely used in construction materials, insulation, automotive parts, shipbuilding, and industrial products. Many buildings constructed before the 1970s still contain asbestos.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the body. Over time, these fibers may cause inflammation, cellular damage, and eventually cancer. In some cases, fibers migrate and affect the lining around the testicles.
Symptoms of Testicular Mesothelioma
One of the biggest challenges with testicular mesothelioma is that its symptoms are not unique. They often resemble more common and less serious conditions, which can delay diagnosis.
Symptoms may include:
- Pain, swelling, or discoloration in the scrotum
- Excess fluid buildup (hydrocele)
- Swelling of the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm)
- A lump or mass in the testicle, often painless
- A cyst in the epididymis
Because these symptoms can be mistaken for infections, hernias, or benign cysts, many cases are initially misdiagnosed. Additionally, some men delay seeking medical care due to embarrassment or discomfort discussing symptoms.
Early medical evaluation is critical—especially for individuals with a history of asbestos exposure.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosing testicular mesothelioma can be difficult due to its rarity and overlap with other conditions. Imaging studies, fluid analysis, and biopsy are often required for confirmation.
Surgery
The primary treatment is surgery, most commonly an orchiectomy, which involves removing one or both affected testicles and surrounding tissue. Surgery is often the first and most important step.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy—frequently using cisplatin and pemetrexed—may follow surgery to target remaining cancer cells.
Because testicular mesothelioma is so rare, there is no universally accepted standard treatment protocol. Treatment plans are typically individualized based on the patient’s overall health and disease progression.
Prognosis
Compared to other forms of mesothelioma, testicular mesothelioma has a relatively better outlook.
Studies suggest:
- Approximately 50% of patients survive at least five years after diagnosis
- About 33% survive at least ten years
However, early detection remains a key factor in improving outcomes.
Asbestos Exposure and Legal Rights
Many individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos decades ago—often on job sites, in industrial settings, shipyards, construction, oil refineries, military service, or through contaminated consumer products.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with testicular mesothelioma, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Legal claims can help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Future treatment costs
- Financial security for your family
How Madeksho Law Can Help
At Madeksho Law, we have represented asbestos victims and their families for decades. Since 1972, our firm has recovered over $400 million in compensation.
We understand that a mesothelioma diagnosis is overwhelming. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through your legal and medical options with care, discretion, and experience.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with testicular mesothelioma, call 888-910-MESO (6376) or complete our contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation.
You do not have to face this alone.
