Do I have Testicular Cancer?
The only way to know if you have Testicular Cancer is to be diagnosed by a doctor. If you suspect that you have Testicular Cancer, contact your primary care physician (PCP) or general practitioner (GP). If Testicular Cancer is suspected, your doctor will refer you to a urologist for a consultation.
Performing a monthly self-exam can help identify abnormalities earlier, leading to a better prognosis.
What is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer occurs when abnormal cell growth develops in one or both testicles, primarily affecting germ cells—the cells responsible for producing sperm. While these cells typically remain dormant until sperm fertilizes an egg, when they become cancerous, they multiply uncontrollably, forming tumors that invade healthy tissue. In some cases, these tumors can contain embryonic-like features such as hair, nails, or teeth.
Learn more here.
Is Testicular Cancer curable?
Yes, testicular cancer is highly treatable, especially when detected early. The five-year survival rate is about 95%.
Can I donate a testicle?
No, at this time it is not medically possible to donate your testicle or testicles to a testicular cancer patient or survivor.
There are prosthetic options available if you are looking to replace a testicle removed as a result of testicular cancer.
What are the symptoms of Testicular Cancer?
A painless lump of any size or swelling in either testicle.
Enlargement of the testicle, change in shape, size, how the testicle feels, or any irregularities.
Pain or discomfort in the scrotum or testicle
A dull ache or sense of pressure in the lower abdomen or back
A feeling of heaviness or fullness in the scrotum
Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts due to elevated hormone levels
Learn more about advanced signs here.
How is Testicular Cancer diagnosed?
Learn more about the process of diagnosis here.
What are the treatment options for Testicular Cancer?
Treatment of testicular cancer starts with an orchiectomy which is the removal of the diseased testicle (testis). This is then sent off to pathology to determine the tumor type, the stage, and extent of the disease.
The pathologist sends the report back to your oncologist who determines what method of treatment is right for you. There are traditionally three options: Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy and Surveillance. After Chemotherapy, some patients also receive a retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) surgery.
Learn more here.
Can Testicular Cancer spread to other parts of the body?
Yes, which is why it is important to catch it in its early stages by performing a monthly self-exam. Testicular Cancer Awareness Foundation’s mission includes promoting the importance of early detection.
Will Testicular Cancer affect my sex life and fertility?
Testicular Cancer and its treatments can have an adverse effect on your fertility and sex life. It is important to bank sperm, even if you are young and/or unsure whether you want to have children, as you may change your mind.
It is also recommended that you get a baseline testosterone check before treatment begins, as losing a testicle can cause a dip in your testosterone levels and have an impact on your sex life.