Testicular Cancer
November 22, 2024
This page was reviewed under our medical and editorial policy by Alexander Chehrazi-Raffle, M.D., assistant professor, Department of Medical Oncology & Therapeutics Research, City of Hope® Cancer Center Duarte
Testicular cancer is the leading cause of cancer for men in their 20s and 30s. When detected early, it is a highly treatable type of cancer.
Most testicular cancers are germ cell tumors, the two main types of which are called seminomas and nonseminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCT). When testicular cancer spreads to the testicle from another location in the body, it’s known as secondary testicular cancer.
Testicular cancer is not common, but it’s the most-frequently diagnosed cancer among younger men. Approximately 9,760 men are expected to be diagnosed with this disease in 2024.
Testicular cancer may not cause any symptoms, but it’s important to understand the early warning signs, which may include swelling, discomfort or a testicular lump.
Germ cell tumors are the most commonly type of testicular cancer. The two main subtypes are seminomas and nonseminomas.
The care team may use a variety of tests during the testicular cancer diagnosis process, including an exam, blood tests, an ultrasound and/or biopsies. Additional tests may be used to identify the cancer stage.
Surgery is the most common treatment for testicular cancer, although other therapies, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy, may be part of the patient’s treatment plan.
City of Hope is constantly developing new therapies to eradicate testicular cancer and help you return to an active, healthy life. We conduct a wide variety of clinical trials, many of them not available to the general public.
When you come to City of Hope, you automatically gain access to an unparalleled array of support services to help you and your family take each step in your testicular cancer journey.
Our Testicular Cancer Expertise
City of Hope is a nationally recognized leader in researching and treating urologic cancers and has been named by U.S. News & World Report as one of America's top urology and cancer hospitals.
Our Testicular Cancer Program Highlights:
- State-of-the-art testicular cancer diagnostic tools
- Minimally invasive robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci surgical system
- Pioneering drug research and clinical trials for testicular cancer
- Novel chemotherapy regimens
- Active surveillance
- Fertility-preserving therapies
- Long-term family and survivorship supportive care programs
City of Hope's renowned physicians and researchers utilize the latest technology and innovation to treat testicular cancer, coupled with our enduring belief in providing unparalleled compassionate care.
Comprehensive supportive care programs are available to you and your family through every step of your testicular cancer journey
Our developments in the areas of breakthrough cancer drugs, CAR T cell therapy and urologic cancer treatment are recognized internationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to cancer care.