Testicular cancer is cancer of the testicles. It is rare compared to other types of cancer, and it occurs most commonly between the ages of 15 and 35. Testicular cancer is a highly treatable cancer with excellent cure rates even if the cancer has spread beyond the testicle. 

Symptoms

Testicular cancer typically affects only one testicle. Rarely it can involve both testicles. Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer include:

• A lump in the testicle

• An enlarged testicle

• A sudden fluid collection in the scrotum

• Discomfort in the testicle

• Heaviness in the scrotum

• A dull ache in the abdomen or groin

Tests

In most cases, men discover a lump in the testicle unintentionally or during a testicular self-examination. Not all testicular lumps are cancers, particularly if they are fluid-filled swellings. To determine whether a lump is testicular cancer, we need to do some further tests, which include:

• Ultrasound. An ultrasound is useful to assess both testicles thoroughly and determine the nature of any testicular abnormalities. The ultrasound is very useful for seeing if the lump is inside or outside of the testicle and whether it is solid or fluid-filled.  

• Blood tests. We will arrange to some specific blood tests for tumour markers. Tumour markers are substances that occur naturally in your blood, but the levels  may be elevated in certain conditions such as testicular cancer. A high level of a tumour marker in your blood does not mean you have cancer, but it may help us determine your diagnosis.

• CT scan. A CT scan is used to make sure the lymph nodes in the abdomen are not affected. 

Treatment

Surgery is recommended to remove the affected testicle if the tests suggest that the lump may be cancerous. The procedure is called a radical inguinal orchidectomy. A pathologist will analyse the removed testicle under a microscope to determine if the lump is cancerous and, if so, what type of cancer. Depending on the type and stage of testicular cancer, you may need additional treatments such as chemotherapy to give the best possible chances of long term cure. 

Male Reproductive Tract

Online Enquiry Form