Testicular Cancer: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever experienced testicular pain or swelling, or noticed something abnormal, you aren’t alone. However, research shows that most men don’t seek the help they need, whether it’s because of fear, embarrassment or a lack of knowledge.

We know that it can be difficult to talk about your pelvic and urologic health, especially when it relates to your reproductive organs. But giving your body the care and attention it needs to thrive is essential for your overall well-being.

Although testicular cancer is very rare, affecting 1 of every 250 males, it’s important to know the risk factors and what symptoms to look out for. Keep reading to learn the ins and outs so you can navigate your health with confidence.

What Is Testicular Cancer?

The testicles, or testes, are part of the male reproductive organs responsible for making sperm and the male hormone, testosterone. These two egg-shaped glands sit in the scrotum, which is a loose sack of skin under the penis.

Testicular cancer occurs when a growth of cancer cells begins to form in the tissue of one or both testicles. While testicular cancer is rare and can happen at any age, it usually occurs between the ages of 15 and 40. The good news is that it’s highly curable, even if it spreads to other parts of the body, with an average survival rate greater than 95%.

Types of Testicular Cancer

Nearly 95% of testicular cancer cases start in the germ cells, which are cells within the testicles that turn into sperm. The two most common types of testicular germ cell tumors are seminomas and nonseminomas. While one type of tumor isn’t more common than the other, they spread at different rates and require different treatment methods. Seminomas grow more slowly and are sensitive to radiation, but nonseminomas spread quickly and usually require advanced care, like chemotherapy.

Symptoms, Risk Factors and Diagnosis

Most of the time, the first symptom of testicular cancer is a painless lump or swelling in either testicle. What testicular cancer feels like can vary from person to person, but common testicular cancer symptoms include:

• Breast growth or soreness
• Change in how the testicles feel
• Dull ache or pain in your belly or groin
• Sudden fluid build-up in the scrotum
• Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum

Risk factors for testicular cancer include:

• A family history of testicular cancer
• Being white
• Having abnormal testicular development
• Having an undescended testicle, called cryptorchidism

The gold standard for diagnosing testicular cancer involves inguinal orchiectomy, which is a procedure that removes the testicle. This procedure is done so your doctor can examine the tissue to make an accurate diagnosis.

But before an inguinal orchiectomy, your doctor will likely perform a physical exam to check for lumps and other abnormalities, as well as perform bloodwork and an ultrasound of the testicles for a proper evaluation. Based on your diagnosis, your care team will work together to decide which treatment option is right for you.

Testicular Cancer Treatment Options

Treatment for testicular cancer often involves surgery and the removal of one or both testicles if not removed during diagnosis, and the removal of surrounding lymph nodes. However, what treatment you need depends on the type of cancer you have and its stage.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a standard option for patients with stage II testicular cancer and is typically done after surgery. Your care team will administer medicines that target and eliminate any remaining cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body. In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend a stem cell transplant following chemotherapy.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is most often used for stage I, stage IIA and stage IIB seminomas after surgery because these tumors are highly sensitive to radiation. During this treatment, your doctor uses high-powered energy beams to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

Self-Examination: How to Check for Testicular Cancer

When it comes to testicular cancer, prevention is the best medicine. We recommend that all males perform a monthly self-examination. It’s best to do so during or after a bath or shower since the skin of your scrotum will be relaxed.

To perform a self-examination, first look at both of your testicles and scrotum for any visible changes. Then, gently roll your fingers over each testicle to feel for any abnormalities, such as a lump or changes in size, consistency or shape. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s best to visit your doctor for a thorough evaluation.

Expert Oncology Care When You Need It Most

At AdventHealth, we’re here to help you navigate your pelvic and urologic health with confidence. Request an appointment today if you’re experiencing concerning symptoms, have questions for your doctor or have been recently diagnosed.