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Testicular cancer is a malignant tumor originating from testicular germ cells, mainly divided into seminomas and non-seminomas. It is most common in men aged 15 to 45, with young men being the high-risk group. Compared with other male tumors, testicular cancer has a better prognosis and higher cure rate, with the key being early detection and treatment.
Globally, the incidence is higher in Western countries such as Northern Europe, Germany, New Zealand, and Australia. In Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, cases have been gradually increasing in recent years. Environmental hormone exposure, cryptorchidism history, and family genetic factors are considered closely related to its development. The disease progresses rapidly, and early signs must not be ignored.
Stage I: Confined within the testis
The tumor has not broken through the testis and has not invaded lymph nodes or other organs. The 5-year survival rate exceeds 95%. Treatment is mainly orchiectomy, with a good prognosis.
Stage II: Involvement of local lymph nodes
Cancer cells spread to retroperitoneal lymph nodes but do not affect distant organs. Treatment requires combined radiotherapy or chemotherapy, with a 5-year survival rate of about 80%–90%.
Stage III: Distant metastasis present
The tumor has spread to distant organs such as the lungs and liver. Systemic chemotherapy and stem cell-assisted therapy may be considered. The 5-year survival rate drops to around 60%.
Stage IV: Extensive multi-organ metastasis
This stage is rare, with the tumor widely affecting multiple systems. Treatment is difficult and relies on comprehensive therapy, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 50%.
1. Painless testicular mass
Most patients first notice a painless lump or hard nodule in one testis, which gradually enlarges with a smooth or slightly irregular surface.
2. Testicular swelling or heaviness
During tumor growth, the testis may develop persistent swelling or a heavy sensation, worsening during walking or exercise.
3. Unequal testicular size
One testis enlarges or hardens, becoming asymmetrical, which is an important external sign for early recognition.
4. Hydrocele or scrotal deformity
The tumor may cause hydrocele, leading to scrotal enlargement or deformity, sometimes with tight scrotal skin.
5. Dull pain in the lower back
When cancer cells invade retroperitoneal lymph nodes, dull or persistent back pain may occur, difficult to relieve.
6. Groin discomfort or swelling
Some patients experience groin pain or palpable lumps, indicating possible lymph node metastasis.
7. Respiratory discomfort or chest pain
If metastasis spreads to the lungs, symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, or chest pain may occur and should be taken seriously.
8. Gynecomastia
Some testicular cancers secrete hCG hormones, stimulating breast tissue proliferation, leading to abnormal male breast enlargement.
9. Abnormal semen changes
Due to hormonal imbalance, changes in semen color, volume, or viscosity may occur, affecting fertility.
10. Decline in sexual function
Patients often experience decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or reduced quality of sexual life due to low testosterone levels.
11. Weight loss and fatigue
Patients may present with significant weight loss and fatigue during the disease course, showing cancer cachexia and affecting daily life.
12. Emotional distress and anxiety
As a reproductive system malignancy, many patients face heavy psychological burdens, often experiencing anxiety and depression.
Experts at United Life International Medical Center remind that although testicular cancer has a high cure rate, its symptoms are subtle and treatment opportunities are easily missed. Once men discover testicular lumps, swelling, or pain, they should immediately seek medical care, undergo imaging and serum tumor marker testing. With the help of new technologies such as immune reconstruction cell therapy, treatment outcomes and long-term prognosis are expected to further improve.
