What is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer happens when cells in one or both testicles start to grow out of control. The testicles are part of the male reproductive system and make sperm and testosterone. This type of cancer is most common in younger men, usually between ages 15 and 35, but it’s highly treatable, especially when caught early.
Causes of testicular cancer
Doctors don’t always know exactly what causes testicular cancer, but it starts when cells in the testicle grow in a way they shouldn’t. Possible causes include:
- Genetic changes or family history of the cancer
- Undescended testicle (when a testicle didn’t drop into the scrotum at birth)
- Abnormal testicle development
- Previous testicular cancer
Risk factors for testicular cancer
You may be more likely to get testicular cancer if you:
- Had an undescended testicle as a baby
- Have a family history of testicular cancer
- Are between 15 and 35 years old
- Are white (testicular cancer is more common in white men)
- Have HIV or a weakened immune system
Symptoms of testicular cancer
Common signs include:
- A lump or swelling in one testicle
- Feeling of heaviness or aching in the scrotum or lower belly
- Pain or discomfort in a testicle
- Breast tenderness or growth (rare)
- A sudden buildup of fluid in the scrotum
Diagnosing testicular cancer
Doctors can find testicular cancer by:
- Doing a physical exam
- Using an ultrasound to look at the testicle
- Ordering blood tests to check for cancer markers
- Taking a CT scan to see if the cancer has spread
- In some cases, surgery may be done to remove the testicle and confirm cancer
Treatment of testicular cancer
Testicular cancer is often very treatable, even if it spreads. Treatments may include:
- Surgery to remove the testicle (orchiectomy)
- Radiation therapy to target cancer cells (mostly for certain types)
- Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells throughout the body
- Regular checkups to watch for cancer coming back
- Counseling or fertility support if needed after treatment