Testicular cancer
Testicular cancer develops in the two oval-shaped male sexual organs, or testicles, located on either side of the penis in the scrotum.
Due to the production of sperm and the hormone testosterone, which is vital for the development of male sexuality, the testicles are a crucial component of the male reproductive system.
Testicular cancer symptoms
Testicular cancer symptoms and signs include:
- A growth or bump in either testicle
- A sensation of weight in the scrotum
- Constant discomfort in the stomach or groin
- An unexpected buildup of fluid in the scrotum
- Testicle or scrotum pain or discomfort
- A distinction between the two testicles’ appearances
- Back pain
- Typically, cancer only affects one testicle
When to consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor, especially if any pain, swelling, or lumps in the vicinity of your testicles or groin persist for more than two weeks.
What causes testicular cancer?
In most situations, the exact cause of testicular cancer is unknown.
Doctors are aware that when healthy cells in a testis change, testicular cancer develops. Body’s beneficial cells divide and grow in an organized way to maintain regular physiological function. But occasionally, some cells become aberrant, and this expansion becomes uncontrollable.
Risk factors of testicular cancer
Testicular cancer risk factors include the following:
- Undescended testis (cryptorchidism). The testicles often descend into the scrotum before birth after developing in the abdominal region during fetal development. A man’s chance of developing testicular cancer is higher than it is for a man whose testicles regularly drop
- Abnormal growth of the testicles. Testicular cancer risk may be increased by conditions like Klinefelter syndrome that lead to abnormal testicular development
- Family background
- Age is a factor in testicular cancer. Particularly younger men and teens
Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022