A doctor should be seen if there is any swelling in the scrotum. The doctor will examine the testicles and feel for any lumps. If the scrotum doesn’t feel normal, the doctor may need to do an ultrasound examination, which uses sound waves to make a picture of the inside of the testes. The doctor may need to cut out the testicle and look at it under a microscope to see if there are any cancer cells. It is very important that this be done correctly. Testicle Self Exam Check yourself right after a hot shower. The scrotal skin is then relaxed and soft. Become familiar with the normal size, shape and weight of your testicles. One testicle may be lower than the other, and one may be slightly larger. This is normal. Using both hands, gently roll each testicle between your fingers. Identify the epididymis, a rope-like structure on the top and back of each testicle. This structure is not an abnormal lump. Be on the alert for a tiny lump under the skin, in the front or along the sides of either testicle. A lump may remind you of a kernel of uncooked rice or a small, hard pea. Report any swellings or lumps to your doctor.. AUTHOR: Richard Zmuda Reviewed by Dan McCrone, MD cancerpage.com Date Modified: 1/22/03 Thanks to cancerpage.com 3/05 A recent report states that a gene TFAP2C is 'expressed' in people with early stage testicular cancer. This may be a way to identify EARLY disease using semen. Naturally more research is needed to confirm. Hopefully if this proves out, it will be done quickly and get into the healthcare system worldwide as soon as possible. The study was published in Human Reproduction, 2005; 20:579-582 Our source: www.ivanhoe.com Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.