Testicular Cancer Diagnosis
Testicular cancer develops in the testicles (testes), a pair of male reproductive glands responsible for producing sperm and the hormone testosterone. Though relatively rare overall, it is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in young men between the ages of 15 and 35.
The exact cause of testicular cancer is not fully understood, but scientists have determined that certain factors may increase the risk. These include an undescended testicle, a family history of testicular cancer, a previous tumor in the opposite testicle and certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome and Klinefelter syndrome.
Symptoms of testicular cancer can vary based on the type and stage of the tumor. Common warning signs include a painless lump or swelling in one testicle, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum and a dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin. Some men may also experience sudden fluid accumulation in the scrotum or discomfort during physical activity.
Testicular cancer is often highly treatable, especially when detected early. Options may include surgery, radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy. Early detection is important to ensure effective treatment, which can lead to the best possible outcome and quality of life.
How is testicular cancer detected?
Testicular cancer is usually detected through a combination of patient-reported symptoms, physical examination and diagnostic testing, which may include:
Imaging tests used for diagnosing testicular cancer
After visually and manually examining the testicles, the physician will typically order imaging to obtain detailed visuals of the inner scrotum and surrounding tissues. Options may include:
Testicular ultrasound
A testicular ultrasound is the primary imaging tool used for evaluating suspicious lumps and other abnormalities in the testes. This noninvasive technique uses high-frequency sound waves to create clear pictures of internal soft tissues and organs. Ultrasound can help the physician distinguish between a solid mass, which may indicate cancer, and a benign condition, such as a fluid-filled cyst, hydrocele or varicocele. This common, painless diagnostic test can provide important information quickly.
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Ages 15 and 35
most cases of testicular cancer are diagnosed
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Approx. 1%
of cancers in men, testicular cancer is relatively rare
Computed tomography (CT) scan
To determine whether testicular cancer has spread beyond the testes, the physician may order a CT scan of the pelvis, abdomen or chest. During this computerized imaging procedure, the patient will lie on a special table that moves through a doughnut-shaped machine while a narrow X-ray beam rotates around their body. The captured data will then be combined by a computer to produce cross-sectional images of the body’s inner structures, allowing the physician to identify tumors, enlarged lymph nodes and other abnormalities. CT imaging is essential for accurate cancer staging, which can help the physician predict the prognosis and plan treatment.
Procedures used for diagnosing testicular cancer
If imaging reveals a suspicious mass in or near the testes, the physician may order a radical inguinal orchiectomy, which is the standard approach for both diagnosing and treating testicular cancer. During this procedure, the surgeon will remove the entire affected testicle and the attached spermatic cord through an incision in the groin. The excised tissue will be sent to a special lab for microscopic analysis by a pathologist, who can confirm the presence of cancer, determine the specific type and guide further treatment. Due to the risk of spreading cancer cells, a direct needle biopsy of the testicle is generally avoided.
Laboratory tests used for diagnosing testicular cancer
Blood work can provide the physician with valuable information about tumor activity in the body. For instance, specialized blood tests can measure the levels of certain substances produced by cancer cells (tumor markers) in the bloodstream. The most common markers for testicular cancer are elevated levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). In addition to supporting a cancer diagnosis, the results can help the physician identify the tumor type and monitor the response to treatment.
Tumor marker testing often continues after testicular cancer treatment to monitor recovery and quickly identify any signs of recurrence. When combined with imaging results and surgical findings, these lab tests can provide the physician with a clearer, more comprehensive view of the patient’s condition and help guide ongoing care.
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Schedule an AppointmentBenefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center
The multispecialty team in the Urologic Oncology Program at Moffitt offers the latest diagnostic and treatment options for testicular cancer in a single, convenient location. We provide each patient with a fast and accurate diagnosis and, if we confirm testicular cancer, we can promptly develop an individualized treatment plan after carefully considering various factors.
If you would like to learn more about the diagnostic process for testicular cancer, you can request an appointment with a specialist in the Urologic Oncology Program at Moffitt by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.
Diagnosis