The testicles (testes) are a part of the male reproductive system.
These organs produce sperm and manufacture male hormones such astestosterone.
Testicular cancer is rare and arises when cancer cells develop in a testicle.
monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images
This article details the signs, types, and causes of testicular cancer and how its diagnosed and treated.
monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images
Testicular Cancer Symptoms: What Does It Feel Like?
Testicular Cancer Lump
The primary symptoms of testicular cancer are typically observed in the scrotum.
Specific symptoms depend on the part of the body thats affected.
However, most people with testicular cancer have multiple types of cancer cells.
Most often seen in males in their late teens to early 30s, non-seminomas tend to be more aggressive.
Risk Factors
Researchers have identified at least 19 specific gene mutations associated with testicular cancer.
Testicular cancer that is detected early is typically smaller and more localized than that which is found late.
Typical diagnostic approaches include examination of the testicles, assessment by a healthcare provider, and medical tests.
Youll be asked about any previous personal or family history of testicular cancer and any symptoms you have.
Imaging
You’ll undergo imaging if the healthcare provider finds any lumps or inflammation.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are used alongside other methods to stage the condition.
Oncologists look for abnormally high levels oftumor markersin the blood.
Tumor markers indicate more advanced cancer and can help a provider determine your pop in of cancer.
Though more research is needed, some researchers believe these approaches may help treat the condition.
Each case is different, and the above figures represent broad statistics.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your prognosis and outcomes as you undergo treatment.
Testicular Cancer Support and Resources
Testicular cancerand its treatmentscan significantly impact your quality of life andmental health.
Researchers have found higher rates of anxiety and depression in males following treatment.
However, there are many resources available to support cancer survivors.
Means of coping include:
American Cancer Society.Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer.
American Cancer Society.Tests for testicular cancer.
American Cancer Society.What is testicular cancer?
National Cancer Institute.What is cancer?
American Cancer Society.Can testicular cancer be found early?
American Cancer Society.Treatment options for testicular cancer, by punch in and stage.
National Cancer Institute.Complementary and alternative medicine.
National Cancer Institute.Testicular cancer treatment (PDQ)health professional version.
American Cancer Society.Testicular cancer survival rates.
