Testicular cancer is cancer that occurs in one or both testicles. Although it’s relatively rare, it’s the most common type of cancer that occurs in men between the ages of 20 and 35.
In men under 60, more than 90 percent of testicular tumors originate in the germ cells, the sperm-producing cells within the testicles.
Testicular cancer is one of the most curable forms of cancer, especially when it’s detected before spreading beyond the testicle. According to the National Cancer Institute, the five-year relative survival rate for all men with this cancer is 96 percent.
Since it's important to catch this type of cancer before it spreads to other parts of the body, some doctors recommend doing a monthly self-evaluation to check for lumps or tumors. You should also be aware of the following symptoms and risk factors.
Symptoms & Risk Factors
In the majority of cases, men discover a lump on the testicle that may or may not be uncomfortable. Additional symptoms include:
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A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
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A dull ache in the abdomen or groin
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A sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
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Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum
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Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts
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Unexplained fatigue or a general feeling of not being well
Risk factors:
- Age between 15 and 39
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Family history of testicular cancer
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Having an undescended testicle
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Hereditary conditions such as gonadal dysgenesis or Klinefelter's syndrome
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Race: This type of cancer is more common among white men than black men; Hispanic, Asian, and American Indian individuals have a risk that is higher than black men but lower than white.
Diagnosing testicular cancer
Generally, testicular cancer is discovered by the patient, either accidentally or by routine self-examination. If you find a lump or are experiencing any of the symptoms above, check with your doctor about screening for testicular cancer.
Your doctor will take a thorough medical history and do a physical exam. The following tests may also be used to determine the presence of testicular cancer:
- Blood tests
- Intravenous pyelogrm (X-ray of kidneys and ureter)
- CT scan and/or ultrasound of the abdomen and pelvis
Treatment
UCSD Medical Center's team of experienced medical and surgical oncologists will determine the best treatment and follow-up care for you. The initial treatment in all cases is to remove the affected testicle and obtain laboratory or radiographic (CT scan or MRI) information about the extent and type of testicular cancer that exists.
After this, a combination of chemotherapy, radiation or additional surgery may be performed according to the specifics of each individual case. This combined modality treatment is very effective and has resulted in one of the highest survival rates of any type of cancer.
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