A cancerous tumor of the testis (testicle) is one of the most common cancers in young to middle-aged men, although it is relatively rare overall. Risk factors for testicular cancer include having an undescended testis or a family history of testicular cancer.
Testicular cancer usually affects only one testis. Symptoms include a hard, painless lump in the affected testis, a change in the usual size and texture of the testis, a dull ache in the scrotum, and a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
Sometimes there may be a sharp pain in the affected testis, or fluid may accumulate in the scrotum, causing visible swelling.
In advanced cases, the cancer may spread to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes or lungs.
Treatment is usually with surgery to remove the affected testis. This may be combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
If the cancer has spread, additional treatment may be needed to treat the secondary cancer.