Re: Testicle pain symptom of cancer?

Posted By HFHS M.D.-AT on October 22, 1998 at 17:06:08:

In Reply to: Testicle pain symptom of cancer? posted by Lisa on October 08, 1998 at 22:20:25:






My husband has been having sharp, sudden, acute pain in his left testicle which sometimes extends into the inside of his left thigh.  Naturally, I cannot convince him to see a doctor, but I am concerned that he should be screened for testicular or prostate cancer.  We have been told that prostate problems run in his family, but he is only 29 years old and in very good health otherwise.  The pain was just occasional when it first began (6 months ago or more) but is becoming more regular.  He describes the pain as a recurring, shooting pain that can continue up to 15 minutes at times.  It does not seem to follow any particular physical activity, and he seems to have no other symptoms or problems with urination or swelling.  Should he be screened for cancer?



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Dear Lisa,
Testicular pain can be a presenting symptom of a wide variety of conditions including epididymitis, varicocele, minor trauma, torsion, hernia and cancer.  It needs evaluation by a physician.
Can it be a testicular tumor?  Yes it can be, but commoner causes need to be considered first.  As regards prostate cancer, if he is more than 40 years of age (50 years if he didn't have a family history), he should have an annual screening for prostate cancer by serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal examination.  This pain however, does not appear to be due to the prostate cancer.
This information is provided for general medical information purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
The Henry Ford Hospital has experience in the evaluation and treatment of problems such as you describes. They would be most interested in helping you. You can reach them through our toll-free number (1-800-653-6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need.
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-A.T.
*keyword: Testicular pain