Reviewed by:
Louisa Davis, cancer nurse
Testicular cancer is cancer that begins in one of the testicles. The testicles are part of the male reproductive system.
Cancer of the testes is uncommon. Around 154 men are affected by testicular cancer in Victoria each year. It mainly affects younger men. It is most common in men aged between 25 and 44. However, it also sometimes affects men aged over 45 and young men and boys aged under 25. Most men diagnosed with testicular cancer will be cured.
It is not known what causes testicular cancer. Certain factors put men at risk: having an undescended testicle at birth and having a father or brother who has had testicular cancer.
Usually a man finds a small hard lump or slight enlargement or change in the density of the testicle. In most cases, only one testicle is affected.
People who find such a change in their testicle should not assume they have cancer. Many conditions other than cancer cause changes in the testicle.
A sensible approach for men and boys is to become familiar with the usual level of lumpiness of their testicles and to see their doctor if they notice a change. A good time to examine your testicles is after a warm bath or shower.
Some people need to be especially watchful. They include men and boys with a family history (father or brother) of testicular cancer, and men and boys whose testes did not descend normally when they were babies.
Removing the affected testicle is the usual treatment. In some cases, this may be followed by chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Early diagnosis and treatment can cure almost all cases of testicular cancer. In most cases, advanced testicular cancer (where the cancer has spread from the place where it began) can also be cured.
Your sexual function will probably not be affected if your testicle is removed. You should also remain fertile, because so much sperm is still produced by the remaining testicle.
Fertility may be affected in men who need chemotherapy, radiotherapy or more surgery. This is usually temporary. However, if you wish to have children, it is very important that you discuss this with your doctor before treatment, so that you can consider sperm banking.
For further information call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.
If you have this symptom, but have not been diagnosed with this cancer, remember that testicular cancer is rare, and your symptom is likely to be due to something else. However, see your doctor if you find a lump on your testicle.
The Testicular Cancer Resource Center (US-based site)
