Testicular Cancer.

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Testicular cancer occurs in the testicles (testes), which are located inside the scrotum, a loose bag of skin underneath the penis. The testicles produce male sex hormones and sperm for reproduction.

Compared with other types of cancer, testicular cancer is rare. But testicular cancer is the most common cancer in American males between the ages of 15 and 34. The cause of testicular cancer is unknown.

Testicular cancer is highly treatable, even when cancer has spread beyond the testicle. Depending on the type and stage of testicular cancer, you may receive one of several treatments, or a combination. Regular testicular self-examinations can help identify growths early, when the chance for successful treatment of testicular cancer is highest.

Symptoms.

Testicular cancer can result in a number of signs and symptoms. These may include:

* A lump or enlargement in either testicle
* A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
* A dull ache in the abdomen or groin
* A sudden collection of fluid in the scrotum
* Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum
* Enlargement or tenderness of the breasts
* Unexplained fatigue or a general feeling of not being well

Cancer usually affects only one testicle.

Risk factors.

Researchers don't know what causes testicular cancer. Risk factors may include:

* An undescended testicle (cryptorchidism). The testes form in the abdominal area during fetal development and usually descend into the scrotum before birth. Men who have a testicle that never descended are at greater risk of testicular cancer than are other men are. The risk remains, even if the testicle has been surgically relocated to the scrotum. Still, the majority of men who develop testicular cancer don't have a history of undescended testicles.
* Abnormal testicle development. Conditions that cause testicles to develop abnormally, such as Klinefelter's syndrome, may increase your risk of testicular cancer.
* Family history. If other family members have had testicular cancer, you may have an increased risk.
* Age. Testicular cancer affects teens and younger men, particularly those between ages 15 and 34. However, it can occur at any age.
* Race. Testicular cancer is more common in white men than in black men. The reason for racial differences in the incidence of testicular cancer is unknown.

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