Usually you begin by seeing your family doctor (GP), who will examine you and take your medical details. They will then refer you to a hospital specialist for further tests, expert advice and treatment.

The specialist will give you a full physical examination and take your medical history. Often, the doctor can tell by feeling the lump, whether it is likely to be a cancer.

You may have an ultrasound scan of the scrotum and the testes. This test can help to tell whether a lump is a cancer or is due to other causes. An ultrasound scan uses sound waves to build up a picture of the testes and scrotum. However, the only way to confirm that the swelling is cancer is for a surgeon to examine the testicle during an operation.

During the surgery the surgeon can sometimes see whether the lump is a cancer or not. A small piece of tissue is removed and immediately examined under a microscope by a pathologist (this procedure is known as a biopsy). If the biopsy shows that the lump is a cancer, the testicle will be removed (this operation is known as orchidectomy).

The cells are then taken to a laboratory and examined further to find out which type of testicular cancer it is.

You can usually go home the next day. If the cancer has not spread beyond the testicle, this may be the only treatment you will need, although for a few years you will have to attend the hospital regularly for check-ups.

The removal of one testicle does not affect your ability to have an erection or to father children. An artificial testicle (known as an implant or prosthesis) can be inserted into your scrotum to give a normal appearance if you wish. Your specialist can give you more details about this.