Alternative Names
Cancer – testes; Germ cell tumor; Seminoma testicular cancer; Nonseminoma testicular cancer
Definition of Testicular cancer
Testicular cancer is cancer that starts in the testicles, the male reproductive glands located in the scrotum.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The exact cause of testicular cancer is unknown. There is no link between vasectomy and testicular cancer. Factors that may increase a man’s risk for testicular cancer include:
Symptoms
There may be no symptoms. Symptoms that may occur can include:
Signs and tests
A physical examination typically reveals a firm lump (mass) in one of the testicles. When the health care provider holds a flashlight up to the scrotum, the light does not pass through the lump.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the:
Expectations (prognosis)
Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable and curable cancers.
Review
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; James R. Mason, MD, Oncologist, Director, Blood and Marrow Transplantation Program and Stem Cell Processing Lab, Scripps Clinic, Torrey Pines, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 9/6/2010
