Testicular cancer is a condition caused by the abnormal growth of cells in one or both testicles and, among all cancer types, accounts for only about 1% to 2% of cases, notes Dr. Fernando Miguel Bolio Laviada, urologist with a subspecialty in urologic oncology at ABC Medical Center.
Mexico’s Ministry of Health notes that testicular cancer doesn’t cause discomfort in its early stages, which is why regular male self-checks are so important, including a monthly self-exam starting at age 18, to detect any lump or swelling in this reproductive organ.
Like many types of cancer, testicular cancer doesn’t have one specific cause, although certain risk factors have been identified that can increase the likelihood of developing it.
The main risk factor is cryptorchidism, also known as undescended testicles, a childhood condition in which one or both testicles fail to move into their proper position within the scrotum. This condition can be corrected early in life.
Having a family history of this type of cancer has also been linked to increased risk, though simply being male with testicles already carries a baseline risk of developing this condition.
Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
While testicular cancer typically shows no noticeable symptoms early on, as it progresses, the following signs may appear:
- A lump or swelling: the most common symptom, usually appearing in one testicle and typically painless; the testicle may also become enlarged.
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum: some men may notice their scrotum feels heavier than usual.
- Testicular pain: while the lump itself usually isn’t painful, some men may experience discomfort in the area, or pain that radiates to the groin or lower abdomen; although testicular pain can have several causes, it’s always worth identifying the underlying reason.
- Fluid buildup: fluid can sometimes accumulate suddenly in the scrotum.
- Fatigue: as the cancer progresses, general fatigue and discomfort may occur.
If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body (metastasized), additional symptoms may appear depending on the affected area.
How Can I Tell If I Might Have Testicular Cancer?
The prognosis for testicular cancer treatment is very good, as long as it’s diagnosed early. For this reason, Dr. Bolio recommends starting regular self-exams during adolescence to help detect any developing lump, changes in testicle size, or changes in firmness.
If you notice one or more of these changes, it’s important to see a urologist for evaluation and an accurate diagnosis, whether it turns out to be testicular cancer or another condition.
Diagnosis may involve several tests, including:
- Testicular Doppler ultrasound: assesses blood flow in the testicle and surrounding areas.
- Tumor marker test: a blood test that helps detect proteins produced by testicular cancer cells.
- Surgery: this procedure serves both diagnostic and treatment purposes, if a testicular tumor or abnormality is detected, it’s essential to remove it, after which it’s sent for analysis to determine whether it’s cancerous and, if so, identify the specific type.
After surgery, and depending on the results, additional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or immunotherapy may be needed, though the treating physician will determine this based on each patient’s specific case, Dr. Bolio concludes.
It’s Normal for One Testicle to Be Larger Than the Other
While one possible symptom of testicular cancer is enlargement of one testicle, it’s important to understand that it’s completely normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other, or to hang a bit lower, this asymmetry occurs naturally in healthy testicles.
That said, if you notice a sudden change in size, shape, or firmness, or experience testicular pain, discomfort, or swelling, it’s a good time to see a urologist.
While this doesn’t necessarily mean testicular cancer is present, it’s still important to determine the underlying cause.
At ABC Medical Center’s Cancer Center, we can provide you with specialized care. Contact us!
