Testicular Self-Examination

The FACTS

Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers in men ages 15-40 years, although it is still rare, constituting less than one percent of all cancers. It is forty times more likely to occur among men where the testes never descended after the age of six. Other risk factors include an identical twin with testicular cancer or a family history of testicular cancer.

Men themselves first discover most testicular cancers. Testicular cancers found early and treated promptly have excellent chances for a cure, so learning how to properly perform testicular self-examination (TSE) can help save your life.

TSE doesnt require much effort or time (just once monthly). By examining your testicles monthly, youll become more familiar with their shape, size, and texture, and be more able to notice if something doesn't feel quite right to you (such as a lump).

Use the simple TSE procedure described in this factsheet.

What Is Normal?

Testicles can differ slightly in size. A normal testicle is smooth, oval and uniformly firm to the touch. Learn what the epididymus at the back of your testicle feels like - a coiled telephone cord - so you won't confuse it with an abnormality.*

What to Do and When The best time to examine your testicles is right after a hot bath or shower. The scrotal skin is most relaxed at this time and the testicles can be felt more easily. The total exam takes only three minutes. Start by placing your index and middle fingers on the underside of the testicle and your thumb on top. Gently roll your testicle between your thumb and fingers feeling for any small lumps about the size of a pea. Continue by examining the vas deferens, the tube that runs along the back of the testicle. Repeat this procedure for both sides. If you do find anything abnormal, it may be a firm area on the front and side of the testicle. Also examine the inguinal lymph nodes. Using the pads of two fingers, gently but firmly press along the inguinal crease. The crease runs from the highest, innermost portion of the hip in front, down and inward toward the groin. Hint - if you put your hands in your front pants pockets and angle them inward, they will fall right into the crease. You should feel some small, rubbery, oval structures under the skin. These are the inguinal lymph nodes. *The epididymus collects sperm from the testicle so it can travel up the vas deferens to the prostate.

Are there Symptoms of Testicular Cancer?

Symptoms of testicular cancer may include:

• A lump in the testicle
• Change in the consistency of the testicle
• Enlargement of the testicle
• Heavy feeling in the testes
• Pain in the testicles (not always associated with cancer)
• Swelling or tenderness of the breast
• Swelling, hardening, or painful inguinal lymph nodes

What if I Find Something?

Remain calm. Most lumps that students find are not cancerous. However, do call your health care provider or any RU student health center to schedule an appointment as soon as is reasonable. We will be able to tell you what the lump is and whether youll need any additional tests.

Treatment

Treatment of testicular cancer usually includes orchiectomy - surgical removal of the affected testicle. Depending on the type of tumor, some patients may have the testicular lymph nodes removed as well. Following surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are sometimes used to prevent possible spread of the tumor to other parts of the body.

Remember that removal of the testicle doesn't diminish sexual desire or ability, or in some cases, fertility.

Myth vs. Fact

Knowing Cancers Warning Signs

• A change in bowel or bladder habits
• A sore that does not heal
• Unusual bleeding or discharge
• Thickening or lump in the breast or elsewhere
• Constant indigestion or difficulty swallowing
• Obvious change in a wart or mole
• Constant nagging cough or hoarseness
• unexplained weight loss

If you notice a warning signal, avoid delay.
See your health care provider.

(Reprinted with permission of the American Cancer Society)

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