Testicular Cancer Symptoms, Risks, Diagnosis & Management
Table of Contents Help Others Discover – Click to Share! Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Table of Contents Testicular cancer may not be as prevalent as other types of cancer yet is recognised as one of the most treatable cancers when identified early. Nonetheless, many men procrastinate seeing a healthcare professional, even when a change has been observed. Awareness early on is important, as is having ready access to the healthcare system. With a digital tool such as Cellmaflex, being proactive about your health is easier than ever. You can schedule appointments online, without a phone call, find nearby urologists, pharmacies, labs or imaging centres, and access your medical records anytime and anywhere. This seamless access ensures that you can take action as soon as you notice something unusual about your changes or symptoms. In this blog, we will look in more detail at testicular cancer: including what testicular cancer is, the different types, testicular cancer symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment options, and coexisting with testicular cancer. What Is Testicular Cancer? Testicular cancer develops when abnormal cells in one or both testicles begin to multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumour. Although some tumours are benign, malignant tumours can spread (metastasize) to places such as the lungs, liver, lymph nodes, and sometimes the brain if not treated on time. The good news is that in the case of testicular cancer the survival rates are exceedingly high when detected early, so it is vital to be aware of early symptoms of testicular cancer and to see a medical professional in a timely manner. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), in 2020, there were approximately 74,500 new cases of testicular cancer worldwide, with age-standardised incidence rates varying significantly across regions, from very low in parts of Africa and Asia, to as high as 8 per 100,000 men in Europe and Oceania. The global variation highlights how environmental, genetic, and healthcare-system factors contribute to incidence and survival differences. As for the Caribbean: Country Value Latin America & Caribbean region Around 0.58 deaths per 100,000 men-years. Latin America & Caribbean region Mortality increased in many LAC countries. Dominican Republic Data not listed separately in fact sheet; the site shows incidence ASR ~0.05 per 100,000. Patients can use Cellmaflex to book an appointment with urology specialists quickly by availability and schedule a visit without wasting time. The Most Common Forms of Testicular Cancer Testicular cancers can be broadly categorised into the two following categories: Seminomas: Slow growing and usually responsive to radiation therapy. They are more common in men between ages 25–45. Non-seminomas: These grow faster and often appear earlier in life, usually requiring surgery or chemotherapy. Other rare types: Such as mixed germ cell tumours and stromal tumours. These may require a tailored treatment approach, depending on cell type and spread. Regardless of type, early identification of testicular cancer symptoms can help doctors recommend the right treatment plan. And with Cellmaflex, all follow-up reports, scans, and lab results can be accessed in one secure digital space, no lost files, no repeated tests. Testicular Cancer Symptoms to Watch For Early signs of testicular cancer are often painless, which is why monthly self-checks are vital. Here are the most common testicular cancer symptoms: A lump or swelling in one testicle A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum Pain or discomfort in the testicle or lower abdomen Sudden fluid build-up in the scrotum Enlargement or tenderness of breasts (due to hormonal changes) If any of these testicular cancer symptoms are present, booking a same-day or next-day appointment through Cellmaflex could save valuable time. Risk Factors Certain factors increase a man’s likelihood of developing testicular cancer: Age: Most common between 15–40 years Family history of testicular cancer Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) Previous testicular cancer in one testicle Risk factor awareness + easy healthcare access = stronger prevention. Cellmaflex helps users stay connected to regular screenings, reminders, and specialist care without long waiting lists. Diagnosis Testicular cancer diagnosis involves multiple steps, especially if testicular cancer symptoms are present: Self-exam – Monthly at-home checks Physical exam – Urologist evaluation Ultrasound – To detect lumps and abnormalities Blood tests (tumour markers) – AFP, hCG, LDH Biopsy/OCR (Orchidectomy) surgery – Confirms cancer type With Cellmaflex, patients can locate the nearest imaging centre or lab, receive digital reports, and securely share results with specialists, all within the same platform. Management & Treatment Treatment of testicular cancer varies depending on the stage and type of tumour, but most cases respond very well to treatment. Common treatment approaches include: Orchiectomy: The main and most effective treatment is surgery to remove the affected testicle. Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND): Your provider may perform retroperitoneal lymph node dissection depending on your cancer’s stage and the tumour type. RPLND is more common with non-seminoma testicular cancers. Chemotherapy or Radiotherapy: Used when cancer has spread or to prevent recurrence. Fertility Preservation: Many men opt for sperm banking before treatment. Follow-Up Care: Most important is follow-up care including regular scans, blood work, and check-ups. With early diagnosis and the proper care team, most patients return to normal life and long-term survival rates remain very good. Coexisting with Testicular Cancer: Life Following Diagnosis A diagnosis of testicular cancer may feel daunting and even overwhelming yet, in general, the prognosis is quite good, particularly when it has been diagnosed early and treated. Most men live full and healthy lives after their care, resuming regular activities within weeks or months. Recovery is not simply a medical recovery, it involves making changes to lifestyle, emotional health, and long-term wellness. Here are some positive lifestyle changes that will support recovery and wellness: Regular Check-Ups – Following a treatment plan requires you to have check-ups. Keeping track of tumour markers, imaging, and health is important. With Cellmaflex our care is easy to follow—with our appointment reminders, results, and summaries stored in one place, there are no papers to carry or missed appointments. Staying Physically Active – Engage in non-strenuous exercise, as allowed by your doctor is an important part of recovery. Exercise will help you regain strength, combat