Seminoma

Also known as: testicular seminoma, testicular cancer, germ cell tumor

What are seminomas?

A seminoma is a form of testicular cancer that impact the germ cells (reproductive cells) in men and boys. They tend to grow slowly, although some can grow rapidly in certain situations.

What causes seminomas?

Like most forms of cancer, seminomas develop due to changes in a cell’s DNA. What specifically causes these changes to occur isn’t clear. Some other medical conditions, family history of testicular cancer, tobacco use, and a few other factors can increase your risk of developing seminomas.

What are the symptoms of seminomas?

In some cases, seminomas may present no symptoms other than a painless mass in the testes. As the tumor grows, it can lead to pain or discomfort, swelling, an enlarged testicle or excess breast tissue.

How can seminomas affect children?

Seminomas typically affect men around middle age (30s and 40s). Children are only about 2 to 5% of all testicular cancer patients, and it usually occurs during adolescence in children.

What are seminoma treatments?

Treatment for seminomas typically involves removal of the tumor or the affected testicle. Radiation therapy or chemotherapy may also be used to kill any remaining cancer cells after the surgery.

Reviewed by: Maggie Fader, MD

This page was last updated on: November 02, 2023 10:47 AM