The majority of testicular cancer originates in undeveloped germ cells that produce sperm. These tumors, called germ cell tumors (GCTs), are most common in men between the ages of 20 and 40 and are highly curable. There are two main types of tumors: seminomas and nonseminomas. A third rare type of tumor, called stromal tumors, develops in the supporting tissues of the testicle.
Experts don’t know all the causes of testicular cancer, but there is one risk factor they agree on: a history of an undescended testicle (cryptochidism), or a testicle that has not dropped from the abdominal cavity (where they form in fetal development) down into the scrotum by birth. Normally, a baby’s testicles drop down into his scrotum before he is born or by the time he is 3 months old. Other risk factors may include Klinefelter syndrome, a genetic disorder in which males have at least two X chromosomes, instead of just one, and a family history of testicular cancer. Most men who get testicular cancer don’t have any risk factors.
The most common symptoms of testicular cancer include:
- A change in the size or shape of one or both testes, or painless swelling
- Pain or tenderness in the testicle, or a dull ache
- A heavy feeling in the scrotum
- A dull pressure or pain in the lower back, belly and/or groin
Many men delay reporting these symptoms, but it is crucial to visit your urologist immediately when you have a symptom to prevent possible spreading of the tumor.
