TeenHealthFX - Answers - Testicular Cancer

Penis & Testicle Concerns / Question
Published: February 5, 2003

Dear TeenHealthFX,

I am curious about testicular cancer, I have been routinely checking my testicles for lumps, and I am unsure whether or not they are present. It almost feels like a separate lump of skin that's moveable beneath the first layer but above the testicles themselves. I have also experienced internal aching in my testicles. Is this a symptom of testicular cancer, and if not, what are other common symptoms?

Signed: Testicular Cancer

Dear Testicular Cancer,

It is great that you have been performing testicular checks, and is good that you found this small lump early if it turns out to be anything at all. Testicular Cancer is the most common cancer in men ages 18 to 34, but the good news is that it can be the most easily cured form of cancer when found early. The most noticeable symptom is a small lump somewhere on the testicle. However if you find a lump there is no need to panic, only a need to get it checked out. Many times you may be feeling a normal part of your anatomy; let a doctor check it out.

TeenHealthFX was wondering if you have been performing Testicular Self-Exams. A TSE is a simple examination that you can do on your testicles to help identify what is normal and not normal for your testicles, any changes in shape or size, pain or tenderness in the area and any unusual lumps or bumps. Here is a brief description on how to do a TSE:

Perform your exam after a warm shower. This will help your testicles (scrotum area) to be relaxed and drop down.
Examine each testicle using both hands. Your thumbs should be placed on the top side of your testicle and your index and middle finger should be place on the back side of testicle.
Gently roll your each testicle between the thumbs and the fingers.
Do this to each testicle.
Visually inspect your genital area looking for any skin discoloration or bumps.

What is normal/What is not:

Your testicles should be about the size and shaped like an egg.
It is normal for your left testicle to sometimes hang lower than the right.
It should feel smooth and rubbery.
Look for any small, hard pea shaped lumps or note any asymmetry of the testicles (one is larger than the other).
Your testicles should not hurt or have any pain
You should not have a feeling of heaviness in your groin area.

If after performing this self-exam you feel that this lump of moveable skin is not normal or you have found other signs that something may not be right please call your doctor as soon as possible. By detecting any problems there is always a better chance that they can be solved! Your doctor will be able to tell you better what is causing the lump so remember to be as open and honest with him/her as possible.

Signed: TeenHealthFX