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Testicular cancer (testicular tumor)

Testicular cancer is the most common type of cancer in young men. Another word for testicular cancer is testicular tumor. In the Netherlands, there are more and more men diagnosed with testicular cancer. In 2017, 800 men developed testicular cancer. In 2024, there were 900.

The condition has received increasing attention in recent years. The Testicular Cancer Foundation therefore started the 'Check your kiwis' campaign.

On this page you can read more about the symptoms, examinations and treatments for testicular cancer.

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Department of Urology

Would you like more information about our specialists, news and trials for testicular cancer? Then visit the page of our Urology department.
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More information about testicular cancer (testicular tumor)

Causes of testicular cancer

We do not know exactly what causes testicular cancer. We do know what the risk factors are. For example, a testicle that has not descended in childhood can be a risk. Men are also more likely to develop testicular cancer if it has previously run in the family.

Symptoms of testicular cancer

Symptoms of testicular cancer may include:

  • A lump, hardening or enlargement of a testicle
  • A swelling just above the collarbone
  • Tender or swollen mammary glands
  • Low back pain

Not every change in the testicle is dangerous. Do you feel a hardening or a lump? Then have yourself examined by a doctor.

Types of testicular cancer

The two most common types of testicular cancer are seminomas and nonseminomas. Seminomas arise from germ cells that normally develop into germ cells. Non-seminomas originate from embryonic cells. About half of men with testicular cancer have a seminoma, the other half a non-seminoma.

Examination and diagnosis

To diagnose testicular cancer, various tests are possible. Your doctor will discuss with you which diagnostic tests are needed:

Lichamelijk onderzoek Winan van Houdt

Physical examination
Echografie

Ultrasound
Bloedbuisjes

Blood tests
CT Scan handen

CT scan

Tumor markers
Biopsie verpleegkundigen

Tissue biopsy

Self-examination

Regularly examine your scrotum and testicle yourself. If testicular cancer is detected early, the chance of successful treatment is greatest.

On the page of zaadbalkanker.nl you can read more about self-examination.

Testicular cancer treatment

The treatment you receive depends on the type of tumour. Your health and fitness also play a role. The doctor will explain well in advance what is going to happen and you will have plenty of time to ask questions.

Stage of the tumor

Two-thirds of men have stage I testicular cancer, so no metastases. One third has stage II or higher. Stage II–III means metastases to lymph nodes below or above the diaphragm. Stage IV means spreading through the blood, for example to the lungs.

Treatment at stage I (no metastases)

At stage I, people often wait. This is called 'watchful waiting'. This is a safe option at this stage with which there is already a lot of experience. If the disease develops further, we start treatment. Sometimes you will receive one course of chemotherapy to prevent metastases. This is especially true in the case of a high risk in stage I.

Radiotherapy

Surgery for testicular cancer

Stem cell transplant

Waiting

We want to inform you as well as possible about the waiting time per condition. We do this based on a prognosis of the current waiting list. The waiting time can vary from patient to patient for various reasons. Your attending physician will give you more information during your outpatient consultation.

  • 7 days

    First appointment

    Your first appointment will be planned within approximately 7 days.

  • 6 days

    Rapid diagnostics

    It will take approximately 6 days before you can start rapid diagnostics

  • 23 days

    Second opinion

    It will take approximately 23 days before you can come in for a second opinion

Read more about your first appointment or second opinion

Make an appointment

Second opinion or transfer

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