Testicular Cancer
In this condition factsheet:
The Facts on Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer found in men between the ages of 15 and 29 years old, and the incidence of this condition has been increasing over the last several decades. Testicular cancer also seems to be more common in Caucasian men than in those of African descent.
Most cases of this cancer are found by testicular self-examination, often following a trauma or blow to the genital region.
The cancer is divided into two types: seminoma (30%) and nonseminoma (70%).
Causes of Testicular Cancer
There's no known cause for testicular cancer. Risk factors for developing testicular cancer include:
- family history of testicular cancer
- previous cancer in one testicle
- undescended testis
Some studies suggest infertility as a risk factor for developing testicular cancer, but this is not yet proven. There is no association between testicular cancer and vasectomy, diet, or trauma.
Symptoms and Complications of Testicular Cancer
The symptoms of testicular cancer include:
- a painless lump in the testicle (common)
- dull ache or pain in the groin or abdomen (uncommon)
- enlargement of a testicle (common)
- pain, discomfort, or a feeling of "heaviness" in the scrotum (uncommon)
- pain or discomfort in the testicle (uncommon)
Occasionally, symptoms arise from disease that has already spread to other organs, such as lumps in the neck, cough due to cancer in the lungs, back pain due to cancer in the bones, and, rarely, neurological problems because of nerve or brain problems.
The treatment of testicular cancer can cause a variety of complications. Radiotherapy may cause problems gaining or retaining erections, while chemotherapy may cause sterility.
Men who have had testicular cancer also seem to be at a higher risk for developing leukemia and other types of cancers.
