Testicular cancer is rare and is reported by the American Cancer Society as accounting for only 1 percent of all cancers. Testicular cancer is an extremely curable disease. If found in early stages, testicular cancer has a 95 percent five-year survival rate. Testicular cancer is most common among young white men ages 20 to 35. There are no guidelines for self examination, but doctors often encourage monthly checks. Symptoms of testicular cancer may not always be present, but if they are it is important to see a health care provider.
Lumps
The American Cancer Society reports lumps as the most common symptom of testicular cancer. These masses or lumps may be small or large. The testicle may also seem to be enlarged. A lump of the testicles may be painless. Most of the time testicular cancer is not painful, so if a mass is found, it is best to have it examined. Testicles can also become harder than normal or change in texture. This is also a symptom that should be reported and examined.
Pain
Although pain is not common in early testicular cancer, it does occur in some cases. Sometimes pain may be felt in the testicles themselves. The Mayo Clinic also describes pain occurring as a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin area. "The Core Curriculum for Oncology Nurses" states that back pain and bone pain are late symptoms of testicular cancer.
Swelling
Swelling can occur in the area of the testicles. Growing tumors may push on or block structures that carry fluid in and out of the testicles, causing swelling or edema. Swelling may be painful or painless depended on where the mass is located and how large it is. Any changes in testicle size should be evaluated by a health professional.
Other Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic lists a heavy or full feeling in the scrotum and sudden fluid changes in the testicle as possible symptoms of testicular cancer. Enlargement of breasts or tenderness is also listed. This occurs when the tumor affects hormone production. Men may also have infertility issues as a result. Late in the disease or if the disease has spread pain in bones and the back, breathing problems may occur.
References
- American Cancer Society: Do I Have Testicular Cancer?
- Mayo Clinic: Symptoms of Testicular Cancer
- "Core Curriculum for Oncology Nursing"; Itano, J. Ph.D., Taoka, K. MSN; 2005
- National Cancer Institute: General Information About Testicular Cancer
