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Testicular Cancer

Primarily affects young and middle-aged people with testicles.

The testicles (also called testes or male gonads) are the primary oval-shaped reproductive organs in males. They are essential components of the male reproductive system, located outside the main body cavity.

Boxing Gloves.

Age < 40

Affects 2%

Most Common Cancer in Men 15 to 35

Overweight > RIsk

Higher Risk White Men

Caught Early 99% Curable

What is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer is a relatively uncommon type of cancer that develops in the testicles (also called testes), which are part of the male reproductive system located in the scrotum.

It occurs when cells in the testicles begin to grow out of control, forming a tumour. It is one of the most common cancers affecting men and people with testicles between the ages of 15 and 50. More than 90% of testicular cancers start in the germ cells, the cells that produce sperm and are called Seminomas. These tend to grow and spread slowly. They usually affect people aged 15 to 50.

Common Signs and Symptoms

  • A lump or swelling in either testicle, which is often painless but can sometimes be sore or suddenly become painful.
  • A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.
  • A dull ache or pain in the testicle, scrotum, or groin.
  • A change in how a testicle feels (e.g., increased firmness or shrinkage).
  • Swelling or tenderness of the male breast tissue (rare, due to hormonal changes).

CHECK INDIVIDUALLY

Check each Testicle individually by focusing on one, then the other, to highlight any difference between them. One always hangs lower for walking.

TECHNIQUE

Gently roll each Testicle between your thumb and forefinger, feeling for any lumps or bumps. Please don't squeeze. Roll gently. Use soap in a shower to help lubricate.

NORMAL TUBES

Feel up the Epididymis. These tubes are lumpy but should be "soft". Notice if one is enlarged or feels harder than the opposite side. Getting used to these tubes will allow quicker checks.

LUMPS AND BUMPS

Visually look for lumps or bumps. Testicles are usually soft and smooth. If you see a lump or bump, probe for pain or tenderness. Normal Testicles do not hurt when gently touched.

SIZE

Note changes in size, shape or consistency you notice. Try to keep a memory of your normal state. It is not normal for a Testicle to suddenly increase in size.

PAIN

Feel for pain; testicles touched gently should never elicit pain. Even if no lumps or bumps are present, an examination by a GP will be required if you feel any pain whatsoever.

How to Perform a Testicular Self-Examination (TSE)

  • The best time is during or immediately after a warm bath or shower. The heat relaxes the scrotum, which makes it easier to feel the testicles.
  • Check the Scrotum and Skin: hold your penis out of the way and visually check the skin of the scrotum for any swelling. Note that it's normal for one testicle to be slightly larger or hang lower than the other.
  • Examine one testicle at a time. Place your index and middle fingers underneath the testicle and your thumbs on top. Gently roll the testicle between your thumbs and fingers feeling for: hard lumps (which can be as small as a pea or grain of rice). Smooth, rounded bumps. Any change in size, shape, or consistency.
  • Identify normal structures. When you feel along the back and top of the testicle, you will feel a soft, tube-like structure. This is the epididymis, which carries sperm. This is a normal part of your anatomy and can sometimes feel softer or bumpier than the testicle itself.
Cahonas Scotland
Tretment NHS Inform Scotland
Testicular Cancer Network