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.
testicular cancer - themes - males