Testicular Cancer

What are the Types of Testicular Cancer?

More than 90% of testicular cancers begin in germ cells, which are the cells responsible for producing sperm. However, there are several different types of germ cells, as well as other types of cells within the testicles where cancer can develop.

The specific cell in which the cancer starts determines the type of testicular cancer. Each type has its own characteristics, including how quickly it grows, how likely it is to spread, and the age group in which it most commonly occurs. Identifying the exact type of cancer helps physicians determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

What Symptoms Develop Due to Testicular Cancer?

The most common early sign of testicular cancer is a lump or swelling in the testicle. Some men may also notice that a testicle becomes enlarged, firm, or painful. Because these changes can sometimes be noticeable, many men perform regular self-exams, which can help detect potential problems at an early stage.

Any change in the size, shape, or firmness of a testicle should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. For example, one testicle may begin to feel harder than the other, become larger, or occasionally appear smaller.

Other symptoms may include a dull ache or feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen or groin. In rare cases, certain types of testicular cancer can produce hormones that cause breast tenderness or enlargement of breast tissue. If the cancer progresses, additional symptoms such as swelling in one or both legs may occur. Early medical evaluation is important whenever these symptoms are present.

How is Testicular Cancer Treated?

If you are diagnosed with testicular cancer, your physician will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan and guide you through every stage of care. Treatment planning often includes discussions about important considerations before therapy begins, such as fertility preservation options like sperm banking.

Surgery is commonly used as the first step in treating testicular cancer. Depending on the stage and type of cancer, additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may also be recommended. These therapies can help treat cancer that has spread or reduce the risk of recurrence. Testicular cancer often responds well to coordinated, multidisciplinary care designed to achieve the best possible outcomes.

In certain advanced cases that require high-dose chemotherapy, additional supportive treatments may be used to protect the body’s ability to produce healthy blood cells. These approaches may involve collecting and storing stem cells before treatment and returning them afterward to help restore bone marrow function. If you have concerns about testicular cancer or need expert evaluation and care, scheduling an appointment with a urology specialist is an important first step.