What do I do if I detect a lump?

Discovering a testicular lump can be alarming, but it’s essential to stay calm and take appropriate action. Not all testicular lumps lead to a diagnosis of testicular cancer, but early detection is critical for effective treatment. This guide will help you understand what steps to take if you notice a lump in your testicle and why seeking medical advice is essential.

Step 1: Don't Panic but Act Quickly

A lump in the testicle may have various causes, including epididymal cysts, inguinal hernia, or even a swollen testicle. While a testicular lump could indicate a more severe condition such as a testicular tumor or testicular cancer, many lumps are benign. Common non-cancerous causes include epididymitis, testicular cysts, and kidney stones. However, since the symptom could be indicative of cancer, it’s critical to act quickly.

Research testicular cancer risk factors to be fully informed.

Step 2: Self-Examine Your Testicles

Performing regular testicular cancer self-exams can help you detect abnormalities early. Feel for changes in the scrotum, such as swelling, scrotal lumps, or irregularities in the size or shape of your testicles. If you find a lump or experience pain in your testicle or scrotum, it’s time to seek medical advice.

Step 3: Consult a Healthcare Professional

If you notice any abnormality, including a testicular lump or swelling, consult a doctor immediately. A urologist may perform a physical exam, order a blood test, or request imaging tests to determine the nature of the lump. Sometimes, a blood test helps identify tumor markers associated with testicular cancer or other conditions like testicular torsion or testicular atrophy.

Step 4: Understanding the Diagnosis

When a lump is detected—either by you or a physician—you should seek the opinion of a urologist as soon as possible. A urologist is a physician who has specialized knowledge and skill regarding problems of the male urinary tract and reproductive organs. Your doctor will analyze the results to determine whether the lump is related to testicular cancer or other conditions such as prostate cancer or a germ cell tumor. In some cases, the lump may be a benign epididymal cyst or a fluid-filled cyst in the spermatic cord. While the situation might feel overwhelming, getting clear cancer information from your healthcare provider is key to navigating your next steps. They will explain the stages of testicular cancer so you’re fully prepared for future treatments.

Step 5: Explore Treatment Options

If diagnosed with testicular cancer, there are multiple treatment avenues available, ranging from surgery to remove the affected testicle to radiation therapy or chemotherapy, depending on the stage. Early detection improves your chances of a successful outcome, and engaging in cancer treatment promptly can make all the difference. Urologists usually recommend one or more of the following tests to confirm whether a lump is a sign of testicular cancer:

Ultrasound: Ultrasound tests use sound waves to help doctors create a “picture” of what’s going on in specific areas of the body. In this case, the ultrasound focuses on the testicles and scrotum, and can determine whether lumps are solid or fluid-filled, and whether they’re on or inside the testicle.
Blood Test: We all naturally have what are known as “tumor markers” in our blood. Tumor marker levels tend to be elevated when cancer is present, but they can be elevated for other reasons as well. High tumor marker levels don’t necessarily mean you have cancer, but they can help doctors make an accurate diagnosis.
Testicle Removal (orchiectomy): If your urologist has good reason to believe the lump is cancerous, surgery to remove the testicle may be recommended. This allows further examination and lab testing of the testicle to determine if the lump is indeed cancerous, and if it is, what kind of cancer is in play.[1]

Conclusion

While finding a testicle lump may feel daunting, timely intervention is crucial. Keep in mind that not all lumps indicate cancer; conditions like epididymitis or scrotal swelling are also common causes. No matter the outcome, taking the right steps early will allow you to manage your health effectively and reduce long-term risks.

Be proactive, perform regular self-exams, and consult with a healthcare professional if you discover any unusual changes. Find the solid support system you need at the Testicular Cancer Foundation.

Sources:

[1] National Cancer Institute, 2014. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/testicular/Patien