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Symptoms

By Mayo Clinic staff

CLICK TO ENLARGE

Illustration of testicular lumps 
Testicular lumps

Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer include:

  • A lump or enlargement in either testicle
  • A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
  • A dull ache in the abdomen or groin
  • A sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
  • Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum
  • Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts
  • Unexplained fatigue or a general feeling of not being well

Cancer usually affects only one testicle.

When to see a doctor
See your doctor if you detect any pain, swelling or lumps in your testicles or groin area, especially if these signs and symptoms last longer than two weeks. Make an appointment with your doctor even if a lump in your testicle isn't painful. Only a small percentage of testicular cancers are painful from the outset.

References
  1. Ryan CJ, et al. Testicular cancer. In: Abeloff MD, et al. Abeloff's Clinical Oncology. 4th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Churchill Livingstone; 2008:1713.
  2. Testicular cancer. Fort Washington, Pa.: National Comprehensive Cancer Network. http://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/PDF/testicular.pdf. Accessed Aug. 8, 2009.
  3. Can testicular cancer be found early? American Cancer Society. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_3X_Can_Testicular_Cancer_Be_Found_Early_41.asp?sitearea=. Accessed Aug. 8, 2009.
  4. Moynihan TJ (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Aug. 26, 2009.

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Oct. 3, 2009

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