A testicular self-exam is used in the detection of cancer in the male genitalia. Testicular cancer is the most common tumor in men ages 20-25. If left untreated, testicular cancer may spread to the lymph nodes and lungs where advanced cancer is even more difficult to treat successfully.
How can I determine if I may have testicular cancer?
Males age 15 and up should examine themselves regularly and continue the process through their 30s. Self-examination is particularly important because cancer of the testes is usually asymptomatic. There are no symptoms such as stomach aches, fever, or pain which might clue you in to a potential medical problem.
There are, however, warning signs:
- one testicle may swell, or feel abnormally heavy
- male breast may enlarge and feel tender
- a sore may develop which does not heal
- a small painless lump may develop on a testicle
How do I examine myself?
- College age men should examine themselves once a month using the following procedure:
- Check yourself right after a hot shower. The scrotal skin is then relaxed and soft.
- Become familiar with the normal size, shape and weight of your testicles. One testicle may be lower than the other, and one may be slightly larger. This is normal.
- Using both hands, gently roll each testicle between your fingers.
- Identify the epididymis, a rope-like structure on the top and back of each testicle. This structure is not an abnormal lump.
- Be on the alert for a tiny lump under the skin, in the front or along the sides of either testicle. A lump may remind you of a kernel of uncooked rice or a small, hard pea.
- Report any swellings or lumps to your provider.
If you have any lumps or other symptoms, it does not necessarily mean you have cancer; but, you must be checked by a provider. If detected and treated early, testicular cancer is one of the most curable of cancers.
Keep in mind that the treatment of testicular cancer usually does not end sexual activity, and when discovered and treated early, it does not impair the individual's ability to father children.