Testicular Cancer Screening

Reference Testicular cancer Opens New Window is not common. It is often first discovered by the man himself, or his sex partner, as a lump or an enlarged and swollen testicle. In the early stages of testicular cancer, the lump, which may be about the size of a pea, usually is not painful. Testicular cancer found early and treated quickly has a very high cure rate.

Experts have different recommendations for screening for testicular cancer. For example, the Reference U.S. Preventive Services Task Force Opens New Window advises against routine Reference testicular exam or Reference testicular self-exams in teens and men who have no symptoms.^{Reference 1}

A genital exam is an important part of a routine physical exam for every adolescent boy and man.

Testicular self-examination (TSE) may detect testicular cancer at an early stage. Many doctors do not believe that monthly TSE is needed for men who are at average risk for testicular cancer. Monthly TSE may be recommended for men who are at high risk for testicular cancer. This includes men with a history of an Reference undescended testicle Opens New Window or a family or personal history of testicular cancer.

For more information, see the topic Reference Testicular Cancer.

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