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Testicular self-examination (TSE)

Why bother with TSE?

Although testicular cancer is rare, it is the commonest cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 34 years.

With early detection and recent advances in chemotherapy, testicular cancer is one of the most easily cured cancers. Unfortunately, about 50 per cent of patients are diagnosed after the tumour has well and truly spread into the body. However, even these patients can respond well to modern treatment.

There is a real need for young men to carry out TSE with the same regularity as women carry out breast self-examination. Both examinations are vital for early detection and for the successful treatment of cancer. Any delay in the diagnosis should be avoided. TSE might be a life-saving health habit.

What are the causes of testicular cancer?

They are not exactly known, but some factors that may lead to it are an undescended testicle, trauma (injury), heat exposure and heredity.

What are the symptoms?

The usual symptoms of testicular cancer include a lump on the testicle, painless swelling and a dull ache or heavy dragging sensation in the lower abdomen, groin or scrotum. The early symptoms are therefore mild and tend to be overlooked.

How to do TSE

Testicular self-examination is a simple procedure that all young men should learn to do.

Examination is best done using two hands.

Explore each testicle individually.

Using both hands, gently roll the testicle between the thumbs and fingers. If pa is experienced, too much pressure is being applied.

The examination should be done at least once a month, preferably after a warm bath or shower, when the scrotal skin is most relaxed.

What to look for

A normal testicle is egg-shaped, fairly firm to touch and should be smooth and free of lumps. When you examine the testicles, you should look for any changes in size, shape or consistency. If you do find something abnormal, most likely it will be an area of firmness or small lump on the front or on the side of the testicle.

Do not confuse the epididymis (the soft tube-like structure at the back of the testicle) with a tumour. If you do find something abnormal, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. However, remember that not all lumps are due to cancer.

Copyright 1995: John Murtagh, Professor of General Practice
Monash University, Melbourne, Australia