Testicular Cancer: Symptoms, Early Detection, and Treatment Options

Testicular cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when detected early. Yet many men delay medical attention due to lack of awareness or embarrassment.

This cancer most often affects men between the ages of 15 and 35, and it can grow quickly. The good news is that with early diagnosis and appropriate care, survival rates are exceptionally high.

Bali International Hospital provides advanced screening, diagnosis, and treatment for testicular cancer, offering a supportive environment designed to empower men to act early and recover fully.

What Is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer starts in the testicles, part of the male reproductive system. It often begins in the germ cells, which produce sperm.

The two main types are seminomas (slow-growing) and non-seminomas (faster growing), but both types respond well to treatment. According to the World Health Organization, testicular cancer accounts for 1% of all cancers in men worldwide but is one of the most curable, especially when identified early.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Testicular Cancer

Knowing what to look for is essential. Symptoms are often painless, which is why they can be missed or ignored.

Common symptoms include:

• A painless lump or swelling in one testicle
• A change in size, shape, or firmness of a testicle
• A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
• A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin
• Sudden fluid build-up in the scrotum

Less common symptoms may include:

• Breast tenderness or growth (due to hormonal changes)
• Back pain (if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes)

If you experience any of these symptoms, book a consultation with our International Hospital.

The Importance of Testicular Self-Examination

Self-exams are a key part of early detection. They help men become familiar with the normal feel of their testicles and recognize any changes quickly.

How to Perform a Testicular Self-Exam:

1. When: After a warm shower, when the skin is relaxed
2. How: Gently roll each testicle between the thumbs and fingers
3. What to look for:

• Lumps, hardness, or irregular textures
• Any swelling or difference in size

Frequency: Once a month, starting from age 15

Have concerns about testicular health? Schedule an appointment at our Hospital.

Risk Factors

Some men are more at risk than others. Understanding these factors can guide decisions about self-exams and screenings.

• Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism)
• Family history of testicular cancer
• Personal history of testicular cancer in the other testicle
• Age 15–35 (most commonly affected group)
• Caucasian ethnicity, which shows a higher incidence globally

Having one or more risk factors doesn’t mean you will get cancer, but it increases the need for vigilance.

Diagnosis Here

We use internationally recommended diagnostic procedures to ensure accurate results.

Tests may include:

• Physical exam by a urologist or oncologist
• Ultrasound imaging to evaluate testicular masses
• Blood tests to measure tumor markers (AFP, HCG, LDH)
• Biopsy only in select cases, usually after surgical removal

Fast and accurate diagnosis helps reduce treatment time and improve outcomes.

Treatment Options for Testicular Cancer

Most men with testicular cancer respond very well to treatment. The best option depends on the type and stage of the cancer.

Surgery

• Radical inguinal orchiectomy: Surgical removal of the affected testicle
• Option for a prosthetic testicle for cosmetic purposes

Chemotherapy

• Often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells
• Highly effective even in advanced or metastatic cases

Radiation Therapy

• Targeted radiation is used, especially for seminoma-type tumors
• Helps prevent recurrence after surgery

Each case is managed with a personalized treatment plan designed by our cancer specialists.

Prognosis and Survival Rates

According to data from the National Cancer Institute, the five-year survival rate for localized testicular cancer is over 99%. Even in later stages, survival rates remain high with current treatments.

Early detection through self-exams and timely medical consultation is the most important factor in a successful outcome.

Why Choose Us?

Men choosing us for testicular cancer treatment benefit from:

• Specialist care from experienced oncologists and urologists
• Access to modern diagnostics and advanced imaging
• Multilingual medical teams for local and international patients
• A respectful, private environment designed for comfort and dignity

From screening to recovery, every step is supported by clinical expertise and compassionate care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you be cured of testicular cancer?

Yes. Most men are cured, especially if the cancer is detected early.

What does stage 1 testicular cancer feel like?

Usually, a painless lump or swelling in one testicle. It often feels firm or irregular compared to the other testicle.

How can I avoid testicular cancer?

There is no guaranteed prevention, but regular self-exams and early reporting of symptoms are the best ways to detect it early.

What does testicular cancer look like on the skin?

Testicular cancer does not usually affect the skin directly. Symptoms are internal, such as a lump or swelling in the testicle.

Testicular cancer is a highly curable disease when caught early. Awareness, monthly self-exams, and timely medical support are essential.

We provide leading diagnostic and treatment services to help men detect cancer early and recover with confidence.

Book a consultation here to take control of your health.