What is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in one or both testicles (testes). The testicles are part of the male reproductive system and are responsible for producing sperm and testosterone.
Testicular cancer is relatively uncommon overall but is the most common cancer in young men, particularly between the ages of 15 and 40.
The good news is that testicular cancer is highly treatable, especially when detected early.
Testicular Cancer
Types of Testicular Cancer
Most testicular cancers develop from germ cells, which are the cells that produce sperm.
The two main types are:
Seminoma
Usually occurs in men aged 30–50
Typically grows more slowly
Often very responsive to treatment
Non-Seminoma
Usually occurs in younger men
May grow more quickly
Includes several subtypes such as embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumour, choriocarcinoma, and teratoma
Some tumours may contain a mixture of both types.
Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
The most common symptom is:
A Lump or Swelling in the Testicle
Other possible symptoms include:
A painless lump in the testicle
Enlargement of one testicle
A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
Dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin
Sudden fluid buildup in the scrotum
Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum (less common)
In some cases, symptoms may occur if the cancer has spread, such as:
Back pain
Cough or shortness of breath
Breast tenderness or enlargement (rare)
Risk Factors
You may be more likely to develop kidney stones if you:
Drink insufficient fluids
Have a diet high in salt or animal protein
Have a family history of stones
Have certain medical conditions (e.g., gout, bowel disease)
Have recurrent urinary infections
Are overweight or obese
How Are Stones Diagnosed?
Your doctor may arrange tests such as:
Urine tests – to check for infection or crystals
Blood tests – to assess kidney function and mineral levels
CT scan – most accurate test for stones
Ultrasound – often used for initial assessment
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase the risk of testicular cancer include:
Undescended Testicle (Cryptorchidism)
Men whose testicle did not descend normally into the scrotum have a higher risk.
Family History
Having a father or brother with testicular cancer may increase risk.
Previous Testicular Cancer
Men who have had cancer in one testicle have a slightly higher risk of developing cancer in the other.
Age
Most cases occur in young and middle-aged men.
How is Testicular Cancer Diagnosed?
If testicular cancer is suspected, several tests may be performed.
Physical Examination
Your doctor will examine the testicles for lumps or abnormalities.
Ultrasound Scan
An ultrasound of the scrotum is the main test used to evaluate a testicular lump.
Ultrasound can help determine whether the lump is solid (more likely cancer) or fluid-filled.
CT Scan
A CT scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis may be performed to check whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs.
Blood Tests (Tumour Markers)
Blood tests may measure specific tumour markers such as:
AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
β-hCG (Beta human chorionic gonadotropin)
LDH (Lactate dehydrogenase)
These markers can help diagnose and monitor testicular cancer.
Treatment
The treatment for testicular cancer usually begins with surgery.
Radical Orchidectomy
The affected testicle is surgically removed through an incision in the groin.
This operation is called a radical inguinal orchidectomy.
The removed tissue is examined to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of cancer.
Most men live normal lives with one remaining testicle, which continues to produce sperm and testosterone.
Additional Treatment
Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, further treatment may include:
Active Surveillance
Regular monitoring with blood tests, scans, and examinations.
Chemotherapy
Medications used to destroy cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy
Sometimes used for seminoma.
Retroperitoneal Lymph Node Dissection (RPLND)
Surgery to remove lymph nodes in the abdomen in selected cases.
Your doctor will discuss the most appropriate treatment plan for your situation.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical advice if you notice:
A lump in the testicle
Swelling or enlargement of the testicle
Persistent scrotal pain or discomfort
Unexplained heaviness in the scrotum
Early medical evaluation is important.
Fertility Considerations
Testicular cancer and its treatments may affect fertility.
Before treatment, patients are often offered sperm banking to preserve fertility for the future.
Your doctor will discuss this with you if relevant.
Prognosis
The outlook for testicular cancer is excellent, particularly when detected early.
Overall cure rates are very high, even in cases where the cancer has spread.
Most men return to normal life and activities after treatment.
Testicular Self-Examination
Regular self-examination may help detect abnormalities early.
Men are encouraged to check their testicles monthly and seek medical advice if they notice:
A lump or swelling
Change in size or shape
Persistent discomfort
