The incidence of testicular cancer in the United States is very low, accounting for only 1 percent of all male cancers. Testicular cancer is most often diagnosed in young, white men between the ages of 20 and 39, according to the National Cancer Institute, though it can be diagnosed in boys as young as 15. Although the incidence of testicular cancer is low, it is important for young men to be familiar with the symptoms in order to seek treatment quickly, if necessary.
Scrotal Mass
The most obvious symptom of testicular cancer in young men is a scrotal mass, notes the National Cancer Institute. The scrotum is located behind the penis and looks like a loose bag of skin. The scrotum houses the testicles, which secrete male sex hormones like testosterone, and other structures that produce and transport sperm. The scrotum should feel soft and pliable, with no hard or lumpy areas. A scrotal mass may be painless or painful. It may feel small, hard or lumpy. The mass may cause swelling and redness in the scrotum. The testicles may feel hard or heavy. Frequent self-examination of the scrotum is important so a scrotal mass does not go undetected.
Discomfort and Pain
Although pain is often present, the National Cancer Institute adds that traditional pain in the scrotum may be absent. It may be described as vague discomfort, tenderness or a dull ache in the testicles or scrotum. The pain may radiate from the testicles to the lower abdomen and low back, and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting. There may be a gradual enlargement of the testicles, or they may simply feel different.
Systemic Symptoms
Sometimes testicular cancer can cause symptoms that seem unrelated to the testicles. These symptoms may be systemic and involve other areas of the body. According to the American Cancer Society, testicular cancer may affect the production of sex hormones, causing hormone-related symptoms. Germ cell tumors can cause gynecomastia, which is enlargement of male breast tissue. Leydig cell tumors can also cause gynecomastia, in addition to loss of libido and overgrowth of facial and body hair in prepubescent boys. If the cancer has gone undetected, it can metastasize, or spread to other areas of the body. Metastasis may be local, involving the lymph nodes in the groin and causing tenderness or discomfort. In advanced cases where the testicular cancer has spread to the lungs, men may have respiratory symptoms, including cough, shortness of breath and possibly chest pain. While some testicular cancer symptoms are obvious, others can be subtle. It is important for young men to perform regular self-testicular exams and contact a doctor immediately if they develop symptoms of testicular cancer.
