The testicles are two small, egg-shaped glands, located below the penis in the sac of loose skin called the scrotum, that produce the male hormone testosterone and sperm.
Testicles contain several types of cells. Most testicular cancers start in germ cells, which produce sperm. Rarely, germ cell tumors begin in the abdomen or chest. These tumors are treated the same way as testicular cancer.
Testicular cancer is the most common solid tumor diagnosed in men between the ages of 15 and 35. However, it is a relatively rare type of cancer, which accounts for only about 1 percent of all cancers in men. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 8,000 new cases of testicular cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year.
Not long ago, testicular cancer was a difficult disease to treat. Advances in treatment mean that most men with testicular cancer, especially those diagnosed when the cancer is at an early stage, can now expect to survive the disease. In fact, the cure rate for all stages and types of testicular cancer combined is higher than 90 percent.
For information about the different types of testicular cancers, visit the Diagnosis and Staging section of this cancer information overview.
Risk Factors
So far, research has not shown a connection between testicular cancer and any particular habits, activities, or lifestyles. However, there is evidence that some men with one of the following have a greater risk of developing testicular cancer:
- Undescended Testicle (Cryptorchidism) Normally, the testicles descend from inside the abdomen to the scrotum before birth. Men born with an undescended testicle have a greater risk of developing testicular cancer, even if they have had corrective surgery.
- History of Testicular Cancer Men who have had testicular cancer have a higher risk of developing a tumor in the other testicle.
Symptoms
Performing a monthly self-examination of the testicles is the best way to find a testicular tumor early. Early detection is important because the sooner a tumor is found, the easier it will be to treat successfully. If a lump or other change in the shape or feel of a testicle is found, schedule an appointment with a doctor immediately.
The earliest symptoms of testicular cancer typically include pain, swelling, or hardness in one of the testicles, or some combination of these symptoms. Less often, the first symptom a patient will notice is a small, painless lump on the testicle. Other symptoms of testicular cancer may include:
- heaviness in the scrotum
- ache in the lower abdomen or groin area
- backache, due to enlargement of abdominal lymph nodes
- change in the way a testicle feels
- tenderness in the breast area, usually caused by high levels of a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)
These symptoms do not necessarily indicate cancer. However, men who experience any of these symptoms are strongly urged to see a doctor immediately. Early detection of testicular cancer greatly improves the chance of a cure.
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