Testicular cancer is usually first detected as a painless lump or swelling in the testicle. Most often, affected males find these tumors themselves—either by chance or while examining their testicles—but tumors may also be discovered during a routine physical exam or a medical workup that is being done for other purposes, such as an evaluation of infertility.
Testicular cancer may give no warning signs or it may cause subtle symptoms, such as:
- Heaviness or a collection of fluid in the scrotum
- A dull ache in the abdomen or groin
- Pain in the testicle
- Breast growth or soreness
- Early (precocious) puberty in boys with signs such as deepening of the voice and/or growth of facial and body hair
These symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, such as injury or inflammation, but they should always be evaluated by a health practitioner.