Overview
Paratesticular adenocarcinoma is an extremely rare type of cancer that develops in the tissues surrounding the testicle. The paratesticular region includes structures like the epididymis (a coiled tube behind the testicle that stores sperm), the spermatic cord (which connects the testicle to the rest of the body), and other surrounding connective tissues. Adenocarcinoma means the cancer arises from glandular (secretory) cells in these structures. Because this cancer is so rare, it is often discovered when a patient notices a painless or sometimes painful lump or swelling in the scrotum. The mass may grow slowly or quickly depending on the tumor's behavior. Some patients may also experience a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, dull aching in the lower abdomen or groin, or changes in the size or shape of the testicle area. Treatment typically involves surgery to remove the affected testicle and surrounding tissues, a procedure called radical inguinal orchiectomy. Depending on the stage and spread of the cancer, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be recommended. Because of its rarity, treatment decisions are often guided by case reports and expert opinion rather than large clinical trials. Early detection and treatment generally lead to better outcomes, so any new scrotal mass should be evaluated promptly by a doctor.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
Painless lump or mass in the scrotumSwelling in the scrotum or groin areaFeeling of heaviness in the scrotumDull ache or discomfort in the lower abdomen or groinChange in size or shape of the testicle areaFirm or hard mass felt near the testiclePain or tenderness in the scrotal areaSwollen lymph nodes in the groinUnexplained weight loss in advanced casesFatigue in advanced cases
Sporadic
Usually appears on its own, not inherited from a parent
Adult
Begins in adulthood (age 18 or older)
Treatments
1 availableAminocaproic Acid
Fibrinolytic bleeding may frequently be associated with neoplastic disease such as carcinoma of the prostate
Clinical Trials
View all trials with filters →No actively recruiting trials found for Paratesticular adenocarcinoma at this time.
New trials open frequently. Follow this disease to get notified.
Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for Paratesticular adenocarcinoma.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to Paratesticular adenocarcinoma.
Community
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Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
Support, advocacy, and financial assistance for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Mental Health Support
Rare disease caregiving can be isolating. Connect with counseling and peer support.
Family & Caregiver Grants
Financial assistance programs specifically for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.What stage is my cancer, and has it spread beyond the paratesticular area?,Will I need additional treatment after surgery, such as chemotherapy or radiation?,How will this affect my fertility, and should I consider sperm banking before treatment?,What is the follow-up schedule, and what tests will be done to monitor for recurrence?,Are there any clinical trials available for this type of cancer?,What are the potential side effects of the recommended treatments?,Should I seek a second opinion at a specialized cancer center?
Common questions about Paratesticular adenocarcinoma
What is Paratesticular adenocarcinoma?
Paratesticular adenocarcinoma is an extremely rare type of cancer that develops in the tissues surrounding the testicle. The paratesticular region includes structures like the epididymis (a coiled tube behind the testicle that stores sperm), the spermatic cord (which connects the testicle to the rest of the body), and other surrounding connective tissues. Adenocarcinoma means the cancer arises from glandular (secretory) cells in these structures. Because this cancer is so rare, it is often discovered when a patient notices a painless or sometimes painful lump or swelling in the scrotum. The m
How is Paratesticular adenocarcinoma inherited?
Paratesticular adenocarcinoma follows a sporadic inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.
At what age does Paratesticular adenocarcinoma typically begin?
Typical onset of Paratesticular adenocarcinoma is adult. Age of onset can vary across affected individuals.