Testicular Cancer
Alternate Names : Cancer - Testes, Germ Cell Tumor, Seminoma
 See all Pictures & Images
Testicular Cancer Diagnosis & Tests
A physical examination typically reveals a firm, non-tender testicular mass that does not "trans-illuminate" (light from a flashlight held to the scrotum does not pass through the mass).
Other tests include:
- Scrotal ultrasound is used to confirm solid mass.
- Blood tests for tumor markers: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotrophin (beta HCG), and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH). Approximately 85% of non-seminomas will have elevations of either AFP or beta HCG. Seminomas will have elevations only in beta HCG or LDH. These tests can also be used to monitor the response to treatment.
- A chest X-ray is done to look for potential metastasis (spreading of cancer) to the lungs.
- An abdominal CT scan may be done to look for potential metastasis.
Tissue biopsy is usually by surgical removal of the testicle. After the testicle is removed, the tissue is examined.
|
