How is testicular cancer detected? What are symptoms of testicular cancer?
Most testicular cancers are found by men themselves. Also, doctors generally examine the testicles during routine physical exams. Between regular checkups, if a man notices anything unusual about his testicles, he should talk with his doctor. Men should see a doctor if they notice any of the following symptoms: • a painless lump or swelling in a testicle • pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum • any enlargement of a testicle or change in the way it feels • a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum • a dull ache in the lower abdomen, back, or groin • a sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum These symptoms can be caused by cancer or by other conditions. It is important to see a doctor to determine the cause of any of these symptoms. How is testicular cancer diagnosed? To help find the cause of symptoms, the doctor evaluates a man’s general health. The doctor also performs a physical exam and may order laboratory and diagnostic tests. These tests include: • Blood tests that me
