Testicular Cancer Screening

Topic Overview

Testicular cancer is not common. It is often first discovered by the man himself, or his sex partner, as a lump or an enlarged and swollen testicle. In the early stages of testicular cancer, the lump, which may be about the size of a pea, usually is not painful. Testicular cancer found early and treated quickly has a very high cure rate.

Experts have different recommendations for screening for testicular cancer. For example, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises against routine testicular exam or testicular self-exams in teens and men who have no symptoms.1

A genital exam is an important part of a routine physical exam for every adolescent boy and man.

Testicular self-examination (TSE) may detect testicular cancer at an early stage. Many doctors do not believe that monthly TSE is needed for men who are at average risk for testicular cancer. Monthly TSE may be recommended for men who are at high risk for testicular cancer. This includes men with a history of an undescended testicle or a family or personal history of testicular cancer.

For more information, see the topic Testicular Cancer.

References

Citations

  1. Lin K, Sharangpani R (2010). Screening for testicular cancer: An evidence review for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Annals of Internal Medicine, 153(6): 396–400.

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology, Oncology
Last Revised June 27, 2012

Last Revised: June 27, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology, Oncology

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