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Testicular cancer develops when abnormal cells begin to grow uncontrollably in one or both testicles. The testicles are part of the male reproductive system and produce sperm and hormones such as testosterone.

Although testicular cancer is relatively uncommon compared with many other cancers, it is one of the more common cancers in younger men. Knowing the warning signs, risk factors, and available treatments can help people recognize unusual changes and seek medical care early.

What Are the Symptoms of Testicular Cancer?

A lump or swelling in a testicle is one of the most common signs. The lump may be painless, so it is important not to ignore a new change even when there is no discomfort.

Other possible symptoms include:

• A change in the size or shape of a testicle

• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum

• Aching or discomfort in a testicle or scrotum

• Sudden swelling in the scrotum

• A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin

• Breast tenderness or enlargement in some cases

• Back pain, particularly with more advanced disease

These symptoms can also be caused by infections, injuries, cysts, or other conditions. A healthcare professional can determine the actual cause.

What Are the Main Risk Factors?

Several factors can increase the chance of developing testicular cancer.

Undescended Testicle

An undescended testicle, also called cryptorchidism, is one of the most established risk factors. This occurs when a testicle does not move into the scrotum before birth.

Having an undescended testicle does not mean cancer will definitely develop, but it can increase the risk.

Age

Testicular cancer can occur at any age, but it is most frequently diagnosed in younger and middle-aged adults.

Previous Testicular Cancer

A person who has had cancer in one testicle has an increased risk of developing cancer in the other testicle.

Family History

Having a close family member, such as a father or brother, who has had testicular cancer may increase risk.

Certain Medical Conditions

Some conditions affecting testicular development or fertility may be associated with a higher risk. Doctors may consider a person's complete medical history when evaluating symptoms.

How Is Testicular Cancer Diagnosed?

If a doctor finds a lump or another unusual change, several tests may be used.

A physical examination is usually an important first step. An ultrasound of the testicles can help doctors examine the lump and determine whether it appears solid or fluid-filled.

Blood tests may also be performed to check for certain tumor markers. These can include substances such as AFP, beta-hCG, and LDH.

If cancer is strongly suspected, surgery to remove the affected testicle may be recommended. The removed tissue can then be examined under a microscope to determine the type of cancer.

What Are the Main Treatment Options?

Treatment depends on the type and stage of testicular cancer, as well as other individual factors.

Surgery

Surgery to remove the affected testicle is called a radical inguinal orchiectomy. It is commonly the first treatment for testicular cancer.

In some situations, additional surgery may be needed to remove lymph nodes or other affected tissue.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medicines that travel through the body to destroy cancer cells or stop them from growing.

It may be recommended when cancer has spread or when there is a significant risk of it returning.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells. It may be used for certain types of testicular cancer, particularly some seminomas.

Active Surveillance

Some people with early-stage testicular cancer may be closely monitored after initial treatment rather than receiving immediate additional therapy.

Regular medical visits, blood tests, imaging, and other follow-up tests may be used to watch for signs that the cancer has returned.

Can Testicular Cancer Affect Fertility?

Treatment can sometimes affect fertility.

Surgery involving one testicle may not prevent a person from producing sperm if the other testicle is healthy. However, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or certain procedures can affect sperm production.

People who may want biological children in the future can discuss fertility preservation, including sperm banking, with their healthcare team before treatment.

What Is the Outlook for Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer is often highly treatable, particularly when it is found before it has spread widely.

The outlook depends on the cancer type, stage, tumor markers, overall health, and response to treatment. Regular follow-up is important because testicular cancer can sometimes return even after successful treatment.

When Should You See a Doctor?

A new lump, swelling, change in size, or persistent discomfort in a testicle should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Do not assume that a painless lump is harmless. Many testicular conditions are not cancer, but only proper medical evaluation can determine the cause.

FAQs

What is the most common symptom of testicular cancer?

A painless lump or swelling in a testicle is one of the most common symptoms.

Can testicular cancer cause pain?

Yes. Some people experience aching or discomfort in the testicle, scrotum, groin, or lower abdomen, although the condition may also be painless.

Is testicular cancer curable?

Many cases can be successfully treated, especially when the cancer is diagnosed early. Treatment depends on the type and stage.

Can testicular cancer affect fertility?

It can. The effect depends on the treatment and whether the other testicle is functioning normally. Fertility preservation can be discussed before treatment.

Can testicular cancer come back?

Yes. Recurrence is possible, which is why follow-up appointments and recommended tests are important after treatment.

Conclusion

Testicular cancer can cause a lump, swelling, changes in testicle size, heaviness, or discomfort. An undescended testicle, family history, previous testicular cancer, and certain other factors can increase risk.

Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or active surveillance, depending on the individual situation. Because testicular cancer is often highly treatable, noticing unusual changes and seeking medical evaluation promptly is important.