Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer

Among many other symptoms, the most common one is a lump or swelling in one testicle. Other possible symptoms include:

   - Tenderness or enlargement of tissue inside the testis
   - Large amounts of fluid in the scrotum (hydrocele)
   - A dull ache in the groin area or abdomen, especially the lower part
   - Feelings of unusual heaviness in the scrotum
   - Inexplicable fatigue

Of course, these symptoms are not a clear indication of testicular cancer in and of themselves. Most lumps in the scrotum should not be considered signs of testicular cancer at all.

Other diseases and conditions that can produce testicular lumps include

   - Epididymitis- inflammation of epididymis
   - Hydrocele
   - Spermatocele
   - Varicocele
   - other kinds of benign scrotal masses

Self-examination for testicular cancer

Most testicular tumors are discovered by patients themselves - accidentally or while performing a self-examination. Regular testicular self examination, at least once a month, can literally save your life, because early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
Time required for complete self-examination is about 5 minutes.

The first thing you should do is take a bath or shower; this will relax the testicles and make it a lot easier to identify any changes. Every testicle should be examined individually applying gentle finger pressure. This should always be done in front of a mirror, so that you will be able to visualize the symmetry.
You shouldn’t be alarmed if you notice a slight asymmetry, because it is quite normal for one testicle to hang lower than the other.
You should try to find a spermatic cord, called vas deferens. which goes from the top of the epididymis. It’s a smooth and firm tube. Then you can start the examination of the testicles. Ideally, they should be smooth, symmetric, and no lumps should be present in scrotum. Every testicle should be examined with both hands. The index and middle finger should be placed under the testicle with the thumbs placed on top. Then, just roll the testicle gently between the thumbs and fingers and seek for any abnormalities. Check the entire surface for hard, fixed areas, lumps and nodules. Most commonly, lumps are located in the sides of the testicles - very rarely they are found on top or under the testicle.

When you finish the examination of each testicle individually, look at both testicles at the same time. Put both testicles in your palm and check for asymmetry. Remember: slight asymmetry is completely normal, because one testicle is always a bit bigger and higher-positioned.
If you find any kind of lump, fluid, or significant asymmetry - seek medical help immediately. Although it doesn’t have to be a cancer, the abnormality may still benefit from early diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis

Only a physician can make a positive diagnosis. The final diagnosis can be set using several diagnostic tools, such as:

     - Blood tests: These usually measure the presence of so-called tumor markers in the blood. They are a secure sign that there is some kind of cancer present in the body, Most common tumor markers are alpha-fetoprotein, beta-human Chorionic gonadotropin, and lactate dehydrogenase.

     - Ultrasound: Ultrasound of the scrotum can show precisely if there is an abnormal mass in the testicle. This method can also rule out bacterial inflammation and other conditions unrelated to cancer.

     - Biopsy: This is probably the best possible diagnostic tool. Histological structure examined this way is the secure sign of a cancer in the testicles. A clinical pathologist performs it, examining a tissue sample under a microscope.