Overview

• Testicular cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of one or both testicles.
• Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15 to 34 years.
• Testicular cancer can usually be cured.
• A condition called cryptorchidism (an undescended testicle) is a risk factor for testicular cancer.

Screening Info

There is no standard or routine screening test used for early detection of testicular cancer. Most often, testicular cancer is first found by men themselves, either by chance or during self-exam. Sometimes the cancer is found by a doctor during a routine physical exam.

No studies have been done to find out if testicular self-exams, regular exams by a doctor, or other screening tests in men with no symptoms would decrease the risk of dying from this disease. However, routine screening probably would not decrease the risk of dying from testicular cancer. This is partly because testicular cancer can usually be cured at any stage. Finding testicular cancer early may make it easier to treat. Patients who are diagnosed with testicular cancer that has not spread to other parts of the body may need less chemotherapy and surgery, resulting in fewer side effects.

If a lump is found in the testicle by the patient or during a routine physical exam, tests may be done to check for cancer. Some tests have risks, and may cause anxiety.

(Text from Cancer.gov)