Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that can be seen especially in men between the ages of 15 and 40 and has a quite high treatment success rate when diagnosed early. One of its most important features is that it produces symptoms in the early period in most patients and usually appears with a change noticed in the testicle.
Correctly noticing the early symptoms directly affects treatment success.
The Earliest and Most Common Symptom of Testicular Cancer
A Painless Firm Mass
It is the most typical early sign of testicular cancer.
- A firm, irregular mass in the testicle
- It is usually painless
- It can grow over time
- It is more common in a single testicle
A painless firm mass is the most important finding that must be taken seriously.
Testicular Enlargement or Swelling
- One testicle enlarging compared to the other
- A feeling of fullness in the scrotum
- The occurrence of asymmetry
This condition can be noticed in the early period.
A Feeling of Heaviness in the Testicle
Some patients may describe:
- Fullness in the testicle
- Mild pressure
- A feeling of discomfort
.
Mild Pain or Discomfort
Although it starts painlessly in most cases, in some patients the following may occur:
- Mild testicular pain
- Aching in the groin
- Vague discomfort
.
Firmness or a Change in Structure in the Scrotum
- Loss of the normal soft structure
- A feeling of firm and irregular tissue
- A difference noticed by hand
Less Common Symptoms
In advanced or spread disease:
- Lower back and back pain
- Shortness of breath (in advanced spread)
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Tenderness in the breasts (due to hormonal effects)
In Whom Is Testicular Cancer More Common?
- Men between the ages of 15 and 40
- Those with a history of undescended testis
- A family history of testicular cancer
- Developmental problems in one testicle
How Is Testicular Cancer Detected?
The diagnosis is usually made with the following methods:
- Physical examination
- Scrotal ultrasound
- Tumor markers (AFP, β-hCG, LDH)
- Surgical pathology if necessary
Is Every Firmness Felt in the Testicle Cancer?
No. Not every mass felt in the testicle is cancer. The following conditions can also cause similar complaints:
- Epididymal cysts
- Hydrocele
- Varicocele
- Infections
However, a painless firm mass must be evaluated for cancer.
When Should a Doctor Be Consulted?
In the following situations, a urology specialist should be consulted without losing time:
- Newly noticed firmness in the testicle
- A change in testicle size
- A painless mass
- Asymmetry in the scrotum
- A persistent feeling of fullness
Why Is Early Diagnosis Important?
Testicular cancer:
- Has a treatment success rate of over 95% in the early stage
- Can spread when it is left late
- Can be completely brought under control with early surgery
Summary
The most important early symptom of testicular cancer is usually a painless, firm and palpable mass. In addition, enlargement, fullness and a change in shape can also be seen in the testicle. Because early detection greatly increases treatment success, a urological evaluation must be done whenever any change is felt in the testicle.
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