Clinical trials play an important role in improving cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment. For some patients, taking part may offer access to new therapies that are not yet widely available. Your care team can help determine whether a clinical trial may be an option and explain what participation involves.
What is Testicular Cancer?
Testicular cancer develops when cells in one of the testicles begin to grow and divide in an abnormal way, forming a tumor. Most cases start in germ cells, which are responsible for making sperm.
Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers in young and middle-aged adults, though it can occur at any age. It is also one of the most treatable cancers, especially when found early. If you or someone you care about has concerns, LifeBridge Health’s cancer specialists can support you through evaluation, diagnosis and treatment.
Testicular Cancer Symptoms
Testicular cancer symptoms usually appear in just one testicle and may develop slowly.
Common signs include:
- A painless lump or swelling in a testicle
- A feeling of heaviness or firmness in the scrotum
- Pain or discomfort in a testicle
- Aching in the groin, lower abdomen or back
- Breast tenderness or enlargement (less common)
How Testicular Cancer is Diagnosed
Evaluation often begins after a lump or change is noticed. Several tests help confirm a testicular cancer diagnosis and plan next steps.
Physical Exam
Your provider checks for lumps, swelling, discomfort and other changes in the scrotum.
Ultrasound
An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the testicle. It helps distinguish between potentially cancerous tumors and benign cysts.
Blood Tests
Blood tests may check for tumor markers that are sometimes elevated in testicular cancer. These results help support diagnosis and monitor treatment.
Surgical Evaluation
If cancer is suspected, the affected testicle is usually removed through a small incision in the groin. A specialist examines the tissue to confirm the diagnosis and identify the cancer type.
Testicular Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, along with your overall health and fertility goals. Your care team will explain each option and help you choose a plan that fits your needs.
Surgery
Surgery to remove the affected testicle (radical inguinal orchiectomy) is the main treatment for most testicular cancers. In some cases, nearby lymph nodes may also be removed.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses medication to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It may be used to support surgery or when cancer has spread beyond the testicle.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It may be recommended for certain types of testicular cancer, especially when lymph nodes are involved.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy uses medication to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. It may be used for advanced cases.
Clinical Trials
Supportive Services
When you receive cancer care at LifeBridge Health, you have access to supportive services like counseling, integrative therapies and support groups. These resources are designed to help patients care for their physical and emotional well‑being throughout treatment and beyond.