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Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is a tumor that develops in the testicles and often presents with the appearance of a lump, pain, or swelling in the affected testicle. Although it is relatively rare, it is one of the most common cancers among young adults. Recognizing the symptoms early is crucial for a timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

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What Is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer is a relatively rare neoplasm in the general population, but it is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in young men. According to AIOM-AIRTUM's report I Numeri del Cancro in Italia 2024, an estimated 2,060 new diagnoses are made each year in Italy.

The testicles are the organs of the male reproductive system responsible for the production of sperm and testosterone.

Most testicular cancers originate in germ cells, from which sperm are derived. More rarely, tumors can develop from other types of cells present in the testicle.

In most cases, the disease affects only one testicle. Men who have already been diagnosed with testicular cancer have a higher risk of developing a new neoplasm in the contralateral testicle.

Thanks to advances in early diagnosis and treatment, testicular cancer is now associated with a high chance of cure, especially when it is identified in the early stages of the disease.

Testicular cancer risk factors

Although the risk factors for testicular cancer are limited and the causes of this neoplasm are still unknown, there are some situations in which the risk increases.

  • Age – Testicular cancer most frequently affects adolescents and young adults and is one of the most common neoplasms between 15 and 40 years of age.
  • Familiarity – Having a father, sibling, or other close relative who has had testicular cancer can increase individual risk.
  • Cryptorchidism – Failure to descend one or both testicles into the scrotum is one of the main risk factors. Although early surgical correction can reduce the risk, it remains higher than in the general population.
  • Previous testicular cancer – Men who have already had testicular cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease in the contralateral testicle as well.
  • Klinefelter syndrome and other rare genetic conditions – Certain genetic alterations may be associated with increased risk.

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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Testicular Cancer?

In the early stages, testicular cancer may not cause obvious symptoms. When present, the most common signs include:

  • Presence of a lump or mass in the testicle, usually painless.
  • Increased volume or swelling of the testicle, even in the absence of pain.
  • Change in testicular consistency.
  • Feeling of heaviness in the scrotum or lower abdomen.
  • Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum.
  • Enlargement or tightness of breast tissue (gynecomastia), a rare symptom associated with certain types of testicular cancer.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to see a specialist promptly for evaluation. Most testicular nodules are not caused by a tumor, but they still require further diagnosis.

Early detection of testicular cancer

Testicular cancer has a high chance of cure, especially when it is diagnosed in the early stages. For this reason, it is important to know the possible symptoms and consult your doctor if you have changes in the testicle, such as lumps, swelling or changes in texture.

In individuals with risk factors, such as cryptorchidism or a previous diagnosis of testicular cancer, the specialist may consider periodic check-ups and possibly a testicular ultrasound.

Testicular self-examination

Knowing the usual appearance and texture of your testicles can help you recognize any changes early on and bring to the attention of the specialist. Self-examination can be performed regularly, preferably after a shower or hot bath, when the scrotum is more relaxed.

How to perform a testicular self-examination

  1. Do it after a hot shower or bath, when the skin on the scrotum is more relaxed.
  2. Examine one testicle at a time, gently sliding it between your thumb and fingers to assess its shape, size, and texture.
  3. Pay attention to the appearance of lumps, hardened areas, increases in volume or other unusual changes.

If you have lumps, swelling or other changes in the testicle, do not postpone a specialist visit: a timely diagnosis can promote effective treatments and increase the chances of recovery.

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How Do You Treat Testicular Cancer?

If diagnosed early, testicular cancer has a high chance of cure. Thanks to advances in diagnosis and treatment, survival 5 years after diagnosis exceeds 90% in most patients. The choice of treatment depends on several factors, including the type of cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient’s overall health condition.

Key treatment options include:

  • Radical orchiectomy: surgery that involves the removal of the testicle affected by the disease. It is generally the first treatment and also allows the diagnosis to be confirmed.
  • Radiotherapy: it can be indicated in selected situations, in particular for some types of testicular cancer that are particularly sensitive to radiation.
  • Chemotherapy: This can be used after surgery or in cases where the disease has spread beyond the testicle.
  • Surgery of the retroperitoneal lymph nodes: in specific cases it may be necessary to remove the lymph nodes involved in the disease.

Thanks to ongoing advances in research and a multidisciplinary approach, most patients with testicular cancer can now be treated successfully and return to their normal daily activities.

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Reviewed October 2026.