testicular cancer symptom

Testicular cancer

Published by BUPA's Health Information Team

February 2004

Testicular cancer is a rare disease in men caused by abnormal growth of cells of the testicle. The testicles (or testes) are located inside the scrotum, the loose bag of skin that hangs below the penis. Each testicle (or testis) produces sperm.

About testicular cancer

Cancer of the testicles is not a common cancer overall, and is responsible for less than one per cent of all cancer deaths. However, it is the most common cancer in men aged 20 to 34. It is important for men to be aware of the disease so that they can recognise the symptoms. If caught early, testicular cancer can usually be treated and cured.

Types of testicular cancer

The most common types of testicular cancer are seminoma and teratoma. Seminomas are made up of a single type of cell, whereas teratomas consist of more than one type of testicular cell. Occasionally, the cancer can be a combination of seminoma and teratoma. Other types of testicular cancer, such as lymphoma, arise from lymphatic tissue (tissue that forms part of the immune system) within the testicle. These are very rare.

What causes testicular cancer?

The causes of testicular cancer are unknown, but men born with an undescended testicle (one that remains in the abdominal cavity rather than descending into the scrotum) may be at greater risk of developing the disease.

Other factors that are thought to make testicular cancer more likely include:

having a brother who had testicular cancer

fertility problems

being from a wealthier social group

having a rare complication of mumps called mumps orchitis (painful swelling of the testis)

Symptoms of testicular cancer

The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a lump, irregularity or swelling in one testicle. Other symptoms that may be present are:

a pulling sensation or feeling of unusual heaviness in the scrotum

a dull ache in the groin or lower abdomen

pain or discomfort (which may come and go) in the testicle or scrotum

tenderness or enlargement of tissue in the breast area

a sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum (called a hydrocele).

Most lumps in the scrotum are not testicular cancer. However, anyone who notices one or more of the symptoms above should see their GP for advice.

Detecting testicular cancer

Testicular cancer can't be prevented. To help detect it early, you should be aware of how your testicles feel normally, so that you notice any unusual lumps, irregularities, enlargements or areas of firmness.

A good time to feel the testicles is when you are having a warm bath or shower, when the scrotal skin is relaxed. Feel each testicle by rolling it between thumb and forefinger.

You may notice that one testicle is slightly larger than the other, which is normal. Also, it is normal to feel the epididymis - a small, firm, tube-like structure at the back of the testicle. This stores and transports sperm.