Testicular Cancer

Integrative Approach for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is one of the many cancer types treated by the interdisciplinary team of doctors at Loyola Medicine. Utilizing state-of-the-art facilities and the latest in research and technology, Loyola is dedicated to improving your cancer outcome.

What is Testicular Cancer?

Cancer of the testes, the male reproductive glands, is one of the most common forms of cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35—and also one of the most treatable and curable cancers. The exact cause of testicular cancer is unknown, but factors that may increase a man's risk for this cancer type include:

• Abnormal testicle development
• Genetic history of testicular cancer
• History of cryptorchidism (undescended testicle)
• HIV infection
• Klinefelter syndrome, a male chromosomal disorder

There are two main types of testicular cancer: testicular seminoma and nonseminoma tumors. The two types grow and spread differently and require different treatment plans. 
  
Seminoma is a slow-growing form of testicular cancer that is usually found in men in their 30s and 40s. Nonseminoma is a more common type of testicular cancer and identified according to these cell types:

• Choriocarcinoma
• Embryonal carcinoma
• Teratoma
• Yolk sac tumor 
   

How is Testicular Cancer Diagnosed?

Doctors at Loyola are committed to the accurate diagnosis and treatment of testicular cancer.  In most cases, a physical examination reveals a firm lump (mass) in one of the testicles. If a lump is detected, your doctor may order additional tests, which can include:

• Abdominal and pelvic CT scan (computed tomography)
• Blood tests for tumor markers: alpha fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotrophin (beta HCG), and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH)
• Chest X-ray
• Ultrasound of the scrotum

How is Testicular Cancer Treated?

Testicular cancer treatment depends on the type of testicular tumor and the stage of the tumor. Once cancer is found, the first step is to determine the type of cancer cell by examining it under a microscope. The cells can be seminoma, nonseminoma or both. The next step is to determine if cancer has spread, a process called staging. 
  
These treatments can be used and may be used in combination:

• Chemotherapy
• Lymph node surgery, which removes nearby lymph nodes (lymphadenectomy)
• Orchiectomy, which removes the tumor and the affected testicle
• Radiation therapy, including brachytherapy

Testicular Cancer Research at One of the Nation’s Top Urology Programs

Loyola is widely recognized as one of the top urology programs nationwide. Our urologists have intense dedication to providing the highest quality care while preserving your individuality, privacy and dignity. 
  
Loyola faculty are involved in healthcare research for testicular cancer and committed to finding ways to reduce your cancer symptoms and improve your cancer survival.