Testicular Cancer Specialist

What is testicular cancer?

Most testicular cancers develop in your germ cells, which are the cells responsible for creating sperm. There are two types of germ cell tumors.

Seminomas

These tumors are slow-growing and are often detected based on elevated levels of human chorionic gonadotropin, or HCG, proteins.

Non-seminomas

These tumors usually develop in younger men, and sometimes even in children. They grow more rapidly than seminomas and can be aggressive forms of cancer that spread to other areas of the body.

Developing tumors containing both types of cells is possible. Doctors treat these tumors in the same manner as they do non-seminoma cancers.

Am I at risk of developing testicular cancer?

Researchers have determined specific risk factors that indicate higher chances of developing testicular cancer. These include:

• A close relative with a history of testicular cancer
• An undescended testicle
• Carcinoma in situ (CIS) in the testicles
• HIV infection
• Presence of cancer in the other testicle

As part of your men’s health examinations, your doctor at Midtown Urology Associates conducts a thorough testicular exam and discusses your risk of testicular cancer. If necessary, additional diagnostic tools include ultrasound, blood screening, imaging tests, and biopsy.

How is testicular cancer treated?

If testicular cancer is detected, there are several treatment options available. Dr. Trotter advises you on the best treatment approach depending on the stage and type of cancer.

Treatment options include:

• Chemotherapy
• Radiation therapy
• High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell transplant
• Surgery to remove the tumors

A combination of these treatments may be the best way to proceed. Some men also choose to participate in clinical trials to gain access to the newest treatment paths, while others may prefer to focus on alternative healing approaches to supplement medical treatments.

If you are concerned about testicular cancer or any other men’s health matter, make an appointment with the urology specialists at Midtown Urology Associates today. Call or use online scheduling to make it easy to find an appointment time.