Types of Testicular Cancer

• Germ cell tumours: The most common, subdivided into seminomas and non-seminomas.

• Other rare tumours: Such as Leydig or Sertoli cell tumours.

Symptoms
Men with testicular cancer may notice:

• A painless lump or swelling in one testicle

• A feeling of heaviness or aching in the scrotum or lower abdomen

• Breast tenderness (due to hormone secretion by the tumour)

Diagnosis
Evaluation includes a testicular ultrasound, blood tests for tumour markers (AFP, HCG, LDH), and imaging (usually CT) to assess for spread.

Treatment
Initial management involves surgical removal of the affected testicle (orchidectomy). Further treatment depends on tumour type and stage:

• Surveillance for early-stage tumours

• Chemotherapy where indicated

• Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) in selected cases

Mr Kamran Haq is involved in the diagnosis and management of testicular cancer through the dedicated Testicular cancer clinic at Guy’s Hospital, which offers expert surgical and oncological care for patients across the region.