The most common sign of cancer of the testis is a small hard painless lump, about the size of a pea, which is often found on the front or side of the testicle. Any abnormality such as scrotal enlargement, unusual tenderness, pain, problems in urination, enlarged lymph glands, tenderness of the breast, a dull ache or feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen or groin should be reported to a physician immediately. The current treatment of testicular tumors depends on the type and stage of the disease. In some cases, it may be used together with radiation or chemotherapy. Removal of a testicle does not cause impotence.
Men often delay seeking medical attention because of the mildness of the typical early symptoms.
They may believe because the lump is painless that it is also harmless, or that it will go away by itself. They may have concerns about loss of sexuality, or becoming sterile. They may fear the treatment, cancer, or death. Most often, early medical attention will lead to the assurance that cancer is not present. However, when cancer is found, early detection leads to a higher cure rate.