What is Testicular Cancer? 

Testicular cancer develops in the male reproductive glands (the testes, or testicles). Testicular cancer is treated successfully in more than 95% of cases. Incidence of testicular cancer is rising. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 7,600 cases are diagnosed annually and about 400 men die of the disease each year in the United States. The disease is most prevalent in men between the ages of 15 and 35, and is approximately five times more common in Caucasians than African Americans. Fortunately, this disease is highly treatable, especially when found early.

What are the types of Testicular Cancer? 

Seminoma: This type is usually slow-growing and very responsive to treatment.

Non-seminoma: This type tends to grow and spread more quickly.

Overall, seminoma and non-seminoma are both curable, even if they’re diagnosed at an advanced stage.

How is Testicular Cancer diagnosed? 

Testicular Cancer is diagnosed through a variety of methods:

• A scrotal ultrasound, otherwise known as the gold standard imaging test.
• Tumor markers: blood tests for AFP, β-hCG, and LDH.
• Physical exam.
• Radical inguinal orchiectomy, which is the removal of the testicle, both diagnostic and therapeutic.

What are the best options for treatment? 

• Surgery is the most common option. Radical orchiectomy is the primary treatment.
• Additional treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer. It’s typically managed by a multidisciplinary team.

^{*Information provided by the Urology Channel.}