Testicular Cancer Screening

Most testicular cancers are found by men themselves. Also, doctors generally examine the testicles during routine physical exams. Between regular checkups, if a man notices anything unusual about his testicles, he should talk with his doctor. Men should see a doctor if they notice any of the following symptoms:

  • a painless lump or swelling in a testicle
  • pain or discomfort in a testicle or in the scrotum
  • any enlargement of a testicle or change in the way it feels
  • a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
  • a dull ache in the lower abdomen, back, or groin
  • a sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum

These symptoms can be caused by cancer or by other conditions. It is important to see a doctor to determine the cause of any of these symptoms.

National Cancer Institute Fact Sheet
Posted July 2006