Testicular Cancer Symptoms: What You Need to Know - Urology

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Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the testicles, which are the male reproductive organs responsible for producing sperm and hormones like testosterone. Understanding the symptoms of testicular cancer is crucial for early detection and treatment.
The most common symptom of testicular cancer is a lump or swelling in one of the testicles. This lump is often painless, but some men may experience discomfort or a dull ache in the affected testicle or scrotum. In your case, you mentioned that your left testicle is significantly larger than the right and that you experience mild pain. While an increase in size and discomfort can be concerning, it is important to note that not all enlargements or pains in the testicles indicate cancer. Other conditions, such as epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), hydrocele (fluid accumulation around the testicle), or varicocele (enlargement of veins within the scrotum), can also cause similar symptoms.

In addition to a lump or swelling, other symptoms of testicular cancer may include:
1. Changes in Testicular Size or Shape: One testicle may become noticeably larger or change in shape compared to the other.

2. Pain or Discomfort: While many men with testicular cancer do not experience pain, some may feel a dull ache or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum.

3. Heaviness in the Scrotum: Some men report a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum.

4. Breast Tissue Changes: In some cases, men may experience gynecomastia, which is the enlargement of breast tissue due to hormonal changes.

5. Back Pain: If the cancer spreads to lymph nodes in the abdomen, it may cause back pain.

6. Other Symptoms: In advanced cases, symptoms may include abdominal pain, shortness of breath, or cough if the cancer has spread to the lungs.

Given your symptoms of enlargement and mild pain in the left testicle, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider will typically perform a physical examination and may recommend an ultrasound of the scrotum to assess the mass. Blood tests to check for tumor markers, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), may also be conducted, as elevated levels can indicate the presence of testicular cancer.

It’s important to remember that while your symptoms could be indicative of testicular cancer, they could also be due to other benign conditions. Therefore, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis. Early detection of testicular cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes, so do not hesitate to reach out to a urologist or your primary care physician for further evaluation.

In summary, the key symptoms of testicular cancer include a lump or swelling in the testicle, changes in size or shape, discomfort, and other systemic symptoms if the cancer has progressed. Given your concerns, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive assessment and appropriate management.