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Testicular cancer
Testicular cancer accounts for one or two in 100 cancers in men and is the most treatable of cancers with 95 in 100 men making a full recovery after treatment.
Click on the tabs below for more information about testicular cancer.
A testicular tumour (cancer) is caused by cells dividing uncontrollably. They can sometimes spread to other parts of your body through the bloodstream or lymph system.
Testicular cancer can spread to the lymph nodes (also known as glands), for example in your abdomen (tummy), or form tumours in the lungs or other organs. The spread of cancer is called metastasis.
About the testicles
The testicles are located inside the scrotum, the loose bag of skin that hangs below the penis. From the start of puberty, each testicle produces sperm and the hormone testosterone.
Types of testicular cancer
There are two main types of testicular cancer: seminoma and non-seminoma (including teratoma). The names refer to the type of cell that makes up the tumour.
Very rarely, another type of cancer, called a lymphoma, can occur in the testicles. This is cancer of the lymphatic tissue (which forms part of the immune system). It's the most common testicular cancer in men over 50.
Causes of testicular cancer
The causes of testicular cancer are unknown. However, the number of men who develop it is increasing and research is being done to find out why.
The greatest risk is for men born with an undescended testicle (one that remains in the abdominal cavity rather than descending into the scrotum). Boys who don't have the condition corrected by the age of 11 may be up to 32 times more likely to develop testicular cancer later.
Other risk factors include:
- having a brother or father who had testicular cancer
- fertility problems
- being from a wealthier social group
- being white
- having a rare complication of mumps called orchitis (painful swelling of the testicles)
A vasectomy or injury to the testicles doesn't cause testicular cancer.
Help and support
Being diagnosed with cancer can be distressing for you and your family. An important part of cancer treatment is having support to deal with the emotional aspects as well as the physical symptoms. Cancer doctors and nurses are experts in providing the support you need, and may visit you at home. Make sure you tell the medical team or your doctor about any problems you're having.
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This information was published by Bupa's Health Information Team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been reviewed by appropriate medical or clinical professionals. Photos and videos are only for illustrative purposes and do not reflect every presentation of a condition. The content is intended only for general information and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
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