What You Should Know

Some patients with testicular cancer have no symptoms at all, especially in the early stage. Their cancer may be found incidentally during routine physical exams, such as ultra sound test or biopsy for diagnosis of infertility.

Certain types of testicular cancers, i.e., germ cell tumors, can secrete high levels of human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (HCG), which stimulates breast development. One of the uncommon symptoms for testicular cancer patients is breast tenderness or breast growth. This symptom results from the abnormal secretion of HCG from certain types of testicular cancer. Blood tests can measure HCG levels; these tests are important in diagnosis, staging, and in follow-up of some testicular cancers.

Here is a list of common signs and symptoms

• A lump or mass in either testicle
• Any enlargement or swelling of a testicle
• A collection of fluid in the scrotum
• A dull ache in the lower abdomen, back, or in the groin
• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
• Discomfort or pain in a testicle or in the scrotum
• Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts

All textual information courtesy of www.tc-cancer.com