Testicular cancer

What is it?

The scrotum, testis or testicle is the name for the male genital gland. The testicle produces sperm cells as well as the male hormone (testosterone).

Testicular cancer is a relatively rare disease, though it is the most common form of cancer for young men (between 15-30 years of age). There are two main types of testicular cancer: non-seminoma and seminoma.

Symptoms

The first symptoms of testicular cancer are usually a painless change in the scrotum: increase in size, overly-sensitive testicular surface or a bump(s).

Treatment

If testicular cancer is suspected, the removal of the affected testicle (in its entirety) is usually the unavoidable first step in treatment. For certain types of testicular cancer, no additional treatment tends to be necessary. Regular follow-up continues for a few years. For other types of testicular cancer, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may be necessary.

With testicular cancer, there is almost always a favourable prognosis. In other words, there is a very high probability of a complete recovery.

Latest publication date: 12/12/2023
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip