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Testicular cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of one or both testicles. This type of cancer is the most common cancer in men ages 20 to 35.
The causes of testicular cancer are not known. However, the following factors increase a man's chance of developing this disease:
- History of testicular cancer
- Family history of testicular cancer
- Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
- Abnormal testicular development
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- Klinefelter's syndrome (a sex chromosome hormones, sterility, breast enlargement and small testes).
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This information is not intended to replace the advice of a
doctor. If you have any questions or concerns about a health
condition, contact your doctor.
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Perform a monthly self-examination, and look for these warning
signs:
- A lump in either testicle — typically pea-sized, but sometimes larger
- Any enlargement of a testicle
- A significant shrinking of a testicle
- A change in the consistency of a testicle (hardness)
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- A dull ache in the lower abdomen or in the groin
- A sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
- Pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum
- Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts.
If you’ve been treated for testicular cancer, it’s important that you have regular follow-up exams with your physician. The earlier a recurrence is detected, the easier it will be to treat.
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The two main types of testicular germ cell tumors are seminomas and nonseminomas. These two types grow and spread differently and are treated differently:
Seminomas
Seminomas are more sensitive to radiation. Treatment is usually surgery to remove the testicle, with or without radiation therapy to lymph nodes in the abdomen after the surgery, with lifelong follow-up.
Nonseminomas
Nonseminomas tend to grow and spread more quickly than seminomas. Treatment may include surgery to remove the testicle and lymph nodes in the abdomen, with lifelong follow-up, or surgery to remove the testicle, with lifelong follow-up.
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Other helpful resources include:
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