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The Young Male Experience with Treatment for Nonseminomatous Testicular Cancer

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Abstract

This is a qualitative study where young men who underwent treatment for nonseminomatous testicular cancer told of their experiences. Using an ethnographic method, three themes emerged from the data: 1) feelings of shock, disbelief, and despair, 2) physical and emotional trauma, and 3) a renewed appreciation of life. These themes often occurred within stages of treatment. Stage 1) symptoms, first surgery (orchiectomy, which includes biopsy), diagnosis, and recovery period; Stage 2) second surgery (lymphadenectomy); diagnostic tests for metastases, and recovery period; Stage 3) chemotherapy regimens; and Stage 4) 3-year disease free period following treatment. This research adds to the dearth of information available on how young males experience treatment for a potentially lethal disease.

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  1. York College, City University of New York, Jamaica, NY, 11451

    Mitchell S. Brodsky

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Brodsky, M.S. The Young Male Experience with Treatment for Nonseminomatous Testicular Cancer. Sexuality and Disability 17, 65–77 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021455813897

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