Testicular Cancer in Men

The testicles make sperm and hormones. A tumour may change the size, shape, or feel of one testicle, although many scrotal changes have causes other than cancer. Doctors may use an examination, ultrasound, blood tests for tumour markers, and scans to understand the diagnosis. The main tumour groups include seminoma and non-seminoma germ-cell tumours. The label and stage guide the next decision; they do not describe your whole experience or predict every outcome.

Arrange an appointment with a doctor or urology team for a new or persistent testicular change. Bring a list of medicines and previous medical information. Before treatment, raise fertility, sperm storage, hormone effects, sexual health, and recovery. Treatment can involve surgery, monitoring, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination, depending on the findings.

Seek prompt medical assessment for a new lump, enlargement, heaviness, firmness, or ache in a testicle. Sudden severe testicular pain, especially with nausea or vomiting, needs emergency assessment because twisting of the testicle is another possible cause. Do not wait for pain before arranging care: testicular cancer may be painless.

Ask which tumour type is suspected, what the ultrasound and blood tests show, whether scans are needed, and what stage has been found. Ask how each option may affect fertility, testosterone, exercise, work, and follow-up.