What you need to know about testicular cancer
4/22/2024 by David Brennan, M.D.
Testicular cancer is an abnormal growth of tissue in the testicles that can result in a mass or spread to other parts of the body. Although testicular cancer is relatively uncommon, it is one of the most common cancers in males between ages 15 and 35. Early detection is ideal, but even later-stage cancers are highly treatable and even curable.
Recognizing symptoms
The first sign of testicular cancer often presents as a bump or lump on one of the testicles. Other symptoms may include:
- Heaviness in the scrotum.
- Dull ache in the lower belly or groin.
- Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum.
- Enlargement or tenderness of breast tissue.
- Back pain.
If you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, consult your healthcare team promptly.
Diagnosing testicular cancer
The evaluation for testicular cancer starts in the doctor's office with a medical history and physical examination. The process may entail the following:
- Physical examination: Your doctor will assess for any abnormalities in the testicles and the abdomen, and check for lymph node enlargement.
- Ultrasound: The first diagnostic test is usually an ultrasound scan, which is a noninvasive imaging test providing detailed images of the testicles.
- Blood test: If testicular cancer is suspected, a blood test can provide additional information about the type of cancer.
- Surgery: In some cases, a biopsy may be performed, but most often when cancer is highly suspected, removal of the affected testicle is recommended to confirm the diagnosis and remove the tumor.
Self-examination and prevention
Regular self-examination for the detection of testicular cancer has conflicting evidence. While periodic palpation can lead to earlier detection, studies have shown that the benefits of earlier detection may not warrant making this practice routine. Consider monthly self-examination (carefully palpating both testicles to feel for lumps) if you have any of the following:
- Cryptorchidism, which is when one of the testicles does not fully descend into the scrotum during childhood.
- Family history of testicular cancer.
- Other testicular abnormalities including atrophy, or shrinkage of a testicle.
Treatment options
Treatment for testicular cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease. Common approaches include:
- Surgery: Surgical removal of the affected testicle, called orchiectomy, is often the initial step.
- Chemotherapy: Administered to destroy cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy: Targeted radiation to eliminate remaining cancer cells.
- Surveillance: Close monitoring for low-risk cases.
Remember that testicular cancer is highly treatable and often curable, even when it spreads. Consult your healthcare clinician for personalized guidance and support.
David Brennan, M.D., is a primary care physician in the Division of Community Internal Medicine, Geriatrics and Palliative Care in Rochester, Minnesota. He focuses on prevention and treatment of a wide variety of common diseases.