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Oncology (General Cancer)/Extra Testicles
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Question
I have a question. My boyfriend has 3 testicles and a 4th one forming. I know that sounds funny, however, we are trying to determine if the additional testes could be cancerous. Once he had them looked at and he was told it was an excess build up of semen.
Could you please tell me what you think? I have not been able to find any information about this condition.
Thanks
Brenda M
Dear Brenda,
I can certainly understand why he is concerned. There are some cases in the literature and the medical term is polyorchidism:
http://www.jultrasoundmed.org/cgi/content/abstract/23/7/951
If they are truly extra testicles they should not be cancerous, but he could be at higher risk of cancer. Testicular cancer is now highly treatable.
I don't understand the explanation that this is excess build up of semen. If he is not sure of the doctor he is seeing he should see a specialist, like a urologist.
I hope this helps,
Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com
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Answers by Expert:
Michael Dean
Expertise
Can answer General information on the causes of cancer and cancer prevention. Information on current cancer research and breakthroughs. The genetics of cancer The risk of smoking for lung cancer and other cancers, as well as SIDS, heart disease, and vision loss. Cannot answer Specific medical questions
Experience
Cancer Researcher for over 20 years
Author of the book "Empty Cribs-The impact of smoking on child health" www.artsciencepub.com.
Author of over 200 scientific articles on cancer, genetics and human disease.
Multiple interviews in print, TV and radio media.
Organizations
American Association for Cancer Research
American Association of Human Genetics
Publications
Scientific journals (Science, Nature, NE Journal Medicine, etc.)
Scientific American, Discovery Medicine, Nature Reviews in Cancer
Education/Credentials
PhD. in Biochemistry from Boston University School of Medicine
Awards and Honors
Young Investigator award-American Association of Cancer Research
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