Testicular Cancer: Symptoms, Treatment, and How to Protect Your Health
Testicular cancer is relatively uncommon, but it is the most common cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35. The encouraging news is that it is also one of the most treatable cancers, especially when detected early. “Because symptoms can sometimes be subtle, understanding what to look for and when to see a doctor can help lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment,” says Alexander Chow MD, a PIH Health Urologist.
What Is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in one or both testicles. “The testicles are part of the male reproductive system and produce sperm and the hormone testosterone,” explains Dr. Chow. “They sit inside the scrotum, the sac of skin beneath the penis.”
Most cases begin in germ cells, the cells that produce sperm. These abnormal cells can form a tumor that may grow or spread if left untreated.
Although a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, the outlook for testicular cancer is very positive when it is detected early.
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Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
The most common sign of testicular cancer is a painless lump or swelling in one testicle. Other changes may also occur.
Symptoms may include:
- A lump or swelling in either testicle
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum
- A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin
- Sudden fluid buildup in the scrotum
- Changes in the size or firmness of a testicle
These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. However, any new or unusual changes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Who May Be at Higher Risk?
Doctors do not always know exactly what causes testicular cancer, but certain factors may increase risk.
These include:
- Age: most cases occur between ages 15 and 35
- Undescended testicle: a testicle that did not move into the scrotum before birth
- Family history of testicular cancer
- Previous testicular cancer in the other testicle
- Abnormal development of the testicles
Having these risk factors does not mean someone will develop cancer, but it may increase the likelihood.
How Testicular Cancer Is Diagnosed
If you or your doctor notice a lump or change in a testicle, several tests may help determine the cause.
A doctor may begin with a physical exam to check for swelling or abnormalities. Additional tests may include:
- Ultrasound imaging to create detailed pictures of the testicles
- Blood tests to check for substances linked to certain cancers
- Surgical removal of the affected testicle (called an orchiectomy) so the tissue can be examined for cancer cells
Imaging tests such as CT scans may also be used to determine whether the cancer has spread.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type of testicular cancer and how far it has spread. Fortunately, many patients respond very well to treatment.
Surgery
Surgery is usually the first step. In most cases, doctors remove the affected testicle in a procedure called an orchiectomy. Nearby lymph nodes may also be removed in some situations.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells and may be used after surgery for certain types of testicular cancer.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medications that travel through the bloodstream to kill cancer cells. It may be recommended if the cancer has spread or to lower the chance of it returning.
Even when treatment extends beyond surgery, testicular cancer often responds very well to these therapies.
Can Testicular Cancer Be Prevented?
There is no guaranteed way to prevent testicular cancer. However, becoming familiar with what is normal for your body can help you notice changes early.
“Many healthcare providers recommend performing regular testicular self-exams to check for unusual lumps or swelling,” says Dr. Chow.
How to Perform a Testicular Self-Exam
A self-exam takes only a few minutes and is easiest after a warm shower or bath, when the skin of the scrotum is relaxed.
Dr. Chow simply explains how to perform a self-exam:
- Hold one testicle between your thumbs and fingers.
- Gently roll it between your fingers to feel for lumps or unusual changes.
- Repeat the process with the other testicle.
Dr. Chow emphasizes, “It is normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other. However, if you notice a new lump, swelling, or persistent discomfort, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider.”
Why Early Detection Matters
Testicular cancer is highly treatable, and most men recover completely when it is caught early.
If you notice new lumps, swelling, or discomfort in your testicles, talk with your doctor for evaluation. To find a urologist near you, visit PIHHealth.org/Doctor, or learn more about urology services at PIH Health at PIHHealth.org/Urology.
Alexander Chow MD
Alexander K. Chow MD is a board-certified fellowship trained urologic surgeon who specializes in advanced robotic surgery for treatment of urological cancers (prostate, kidney, ureter, bladder) and upper urinary tract reconstruction. He also treats patients with general urological conditions including benign prostate disease, kidney stones, urinary obstruction, sexual dysfunction, and vasectomies. Prior to his appointment at PIH Health, Dr. Chow served as an Assistant Professor of Urology and Director of Robotic Surgery at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. He has published over 40 peer-reviewed manuscripts on surgical techniques and surgical outcomes and presented numerous abstracts on robotic surgery at regional, national, and international urological meetings. Dr. Chow is committed to delivering compassionate and patient–centered care. He takes pride in providing state of the art surgery and being available every step of the way for his patients. In his free time, he enjoys being active outdoors with his family including running, hiking, surfing, and skiing. As a Chicago native, he is a passionate supporter of his city's sports teams - Go Bears, Bulls, and White Sox!
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