How to Recognize Testicular Cancer Symptoms Before It’s Too Late

Testicular cancer affects 1 in 250 men during their lifetime, with most cases occurring between ages 15 and 35. Despite being the most common cancer in young men, it has a 95% cure rate when caught early—making awareness and early detection crucial for successful treatment.

At St. Pete Urology, our board-certified urologists specialize in diagnosing and treating testicular cancer using the latest techniques, including minimally invasive surgery and robotic procedures. Understanding what to look for could save your life or that of someone you care about.

Understanding Testicular Cancer and Who’s at Risk

Testicular cancer develops when cells in one or both testicles grow abnormally and form tumors. While any man can develop this condition, certain factors increase risk significantly. As the most common cancer in men aged 15-35, it’s essential for young adults to understand their risk profile.

Men aged 15-35 face the highest risk, accounting for over 50% of all testicular cancer cases. The average diagnosis age is 33, though the disease can strike at any age—6% of cases occur in teens and 8% in men over 55.

Key risk factors include:

• Undescended testicle (cryptorchidism): Men with this condition have 3-7 times higher risk
• Family history: Having a father with testicular cancer doubles risk; a brother with it increases risk 6-12 fold
• Previous testicular cancer: 3-4% of survivors develop cancer in the other testicle
• Race: White men have 4-5 times higher risk than Black or Asian American men
• Certain genetic conditions: Klinefelter Syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities

Dr. Ankur Shah at St. Pete Urology emphasizes that men with these risk factors should be especially vigilant about monthly self-examinations and annual check-ups. According to the National Cancer Institute, while there’s no standard screening test for testicular cancer, regular self-examination combined with awareness of symptoms provides the best chance for early detection.

The Most Important Testicular Cancer Symptoms to Watch For

The most common testicular cancer symptom is a painless lump or swelling in one testicle—present in about 75% of cases. However, multiple warning signs deserve immediate attention, as detailed on our testicular cancer symptoms page.

Primary symptoms include:

• A hard lump on the testicle (often pea-sized initially)
• Testicle enlargement or swelling
• Heaviness or aching in the scrotum
• Dull pain in the lower abdomen or groin
• Sudden fluid buildup in the scrotum
• Testicle shrinkage (testicular atrophy)

Advanced symptoms suggesting spread:

• Lower back pain (lymph node involvement)
• Shortness of breath or persistent cough (lung metastasis)
• Swollen legs or blood clots
• Breast tenderness or growth (hormone changes)
• Headaches or confusion (brain involvement)

Men typically wait 4-5 months before seeking medical attention after noticing symptoms. This delay allows cancer to spread, requiring more intensive treatment. Dr. Reid Graves at St. Pete Urology stresses: “Early detection through self-examination can mean the difference between simple surgery and extensive chemotherapy.”

The American Cancer Society notes that while some testicular tumors cause pain, most don’t—making regular self-examination even more critical for catching changes early.

How to Perform a Testicular Self Exam

Monthly testicular self-exams take just 2-3 minutes and represent your best defense against advanced cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends all men aged 15-55 perform these checks regularly, particularly those with risk factors.

Step-by-step examination process:

1. Choose the right time: Perform during or after a warm shower when the scrotum is relaxed
2. Examine each testicle separately: Hold your penis aside for better access
3. Use both hands: Place thumbs on top, fingers underneath
4. Roll gently: Feel the entire surface systematically
5. Note normal structures: The epididymis (soft tube behind each testicle) is normal
6. Compare both sides: One testicle may be slightly larger or hang lower—this is normal

What you’re feeling for:

• Hard lumps or nodules (may be rice or pea-sized)
• Changes in size, shape, or consistency
• Areas of hardness or irregular texture
• Any new developments since last month

Regular self-exams help you understand what’s normal for your body, making changes easier to detect. Document any findings and report them immediately to your healthcare provider. The Mayo Clinic provides additional guidance on proper examination technique.

When to See a Urologist: Red Flags and Warning Signs

Certain findings demand immediate medical evaluation—waiting even weeks can affect treatment outcomes and prognosis. Our male urology specialists are experienced in distinguishing between benign conditions and cancer.

See a urologist immediately for:

• Any lump or nodule on the testicle
• Unexplained testicle enlargement
• Persistent pain lasting over 2 weeks
• Sudden onset of hydrocele (fluid collection)
• Inability to feel a testicle due to swelling

Diagnostic process at St. Pete Urology: Our board-certified urologists use comprehensive diagnostic approaches:

• Physical examination and medical history
• High-resolution ultrasound imaging
• Blood tests for tumor markers (AFP, hCG, LDH)
• CT scans if spread is suspected
• Inguinal orchiectomy for definitive diagnosis

Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis, who completed his residency at the University of Pennsylvania, utilizes advanced diagnostic techniques including da Vinci robotic surgery when appropriate. Our team’s expertise in minimally invasive procedures means faster recovery and better outcomes.

Why St. Pete Urology? Our four board-certified urologists bring specialized expertise:

• Dr. Reid Graves: Fellowship-trained in robotics and laparoscopy
• Dr. Nicholas Laryngakis: Expert in genitourinary cancers and minimally invasive surgery
• Dr. Adam Oppenheim: Specialized training in urologic oncology at Fox Chase Cancer Center
• Dr. Ankur Shah: Advanced training in reconstructive urology and cancer treatment

According to the Urology Care Foundation, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential, as testicular cancer can spread rapidly but remains highly curable even in advanced stages when properly treated.

Conclusion

Testicular cancer’s 95% cure rate depends entirely on early detection. Monthly self-examinations, awareness of symptoms, and prompt medical attention when abnormalities arise can literally save your life. Men aged 15-35 should be particularly vigilant, though the disease can strike at any age.

Remember: finding a lump doesn’t automatically mean cancer—many testicular conditions are benign. However, only a urologist can make that determination. The embarrassment of an examination pales compared to the consequences of delayed diagnosis.

At St. Pete Urology, we provide compassionate, confidential care in a state-of-the-art facility. Our team understands the sensitive nature of testicular health and creates a comfortable environment for all patients. We’re conveniently located at 830 Central Ave, Suite 100, St. Petersburg, FL, serving the entire Tampa Bay area including Clearwater, Largo, and surrounding communities.

Don’t wait months wondering about a concerning symptom. Early detection saves lives, preserves fertility, and reduces treatment intensity. Schedule your consultation today by calling (727) 478-1172. Your health—and your future—deserve immediate attention.

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References:

• American Cancer Society. (2025). Signs and symptoms of testicular cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/testicular-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html
• National Cancer Institute. (2023). Testicular cancer screening (PDQ®)–patient version. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/testicular/patient/testicular-screening-pdq
• Cleveland Clinic. (2023). Testicular cancer: Symptoms, signs, causes & treatment. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12183-testicular-cancer
• Yazici, S., Del Biondo, D., Napodano, G., Grillo, M., Calace, F. P., Prezioso, D., Crocetto, F., & Barone, B. (2023). Risk factors for testicular cancer: Environment, genes and infections—Is it all? Medicina, 59(4), 724. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina59040724