The first sign of testicular cancer is usually something a man notices himself: a firm spot or enlargement in one testicle, often without pain. A testicular lump that is new deserves a quick appointment. When cancer is found, surgery treats most cases, and timing matters.
Signs to act on
- A new firm area or enlargement of one testicle
- One testicle looking or feeling different from before
- A dragging, heavy feeling in the scrotum
- Ache in the lower belly or groin
- Fluid around the testicle
- Breast tenderness or growth
Evaluation
Advanced Urology offers on-site ultrasound and in-house lab work, which helps a scrotal mass be evaluated quickly. Blood tests for tumor markers and imaging help with staging. FDG PET/CT is available for certain staging questions and for checking recurrence.
Treatment and planning
- Radical orchiectomy
- Removal of the affected testicle, the usual first treatment when cancer is suspected.
- Fertility and prosthesis
- Before surgery we talk about sperm banking and, if you want one, a testicular prosthesis.
- Lymph node surgery
- Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND), open or robotic in selected cases, for cancer that has spread to lymph nodes.
- Monitoring and other treatment
- Scheduled imaging and blood tests, with chemotherapy or radiation coordinated when needed.
Your Sandy Springs urologists are listed on our team page. Advanced Urology also covers testicular cancer.