Testicular Cancer

Two main types of testicular cancer are:

Seminomas – two sub-types of seminomas:

• Classical seminomas are more likely to occur in men between the ages of 30 and 50.
• Spermatocytic seminomas are less common and are found more frequently in men 55 years and older.

Non- seminomas – Four main subtypes of non-seminomas:

• Embryonal carcinomas – This type tends to grow and spread quickly.
• Yolk sac carcinomas – This is the most common form of germ cell tumor in infants and boys.
• Choriocarcinomas –This type is very rare, tends to grow fast and often spreads quickly to other parts of the body.
• Teratomas – Under a microscope, these tumours look like the 3 layers of tissue in a growing embryo.

Common signs and symptoms of testicular cancer include:

• Painless lump or swelling of the testicle
• A change in how the testicle feels
• A dull ache in the groin or lower abdomen
• A build-up of fluid in the scrotum
• Pain or discomfort in the testicle or scrotum
• A scrotum that feels heavy or swollen
• Bigger or more tender breasts

The known risk factors of testicular cancer include:

• Age
• Family history
• HIV infection
• Abnormal testicular development
• An undescended testicle