Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer originates within the testicles, which are responsible for producing sperm for reproduction and the production of male sex hormones like testosterone. It is most often found in men ages 15 to 44 years.

The cells that eventually form sperm (termed germ cells) are the origin of most testicular cancers. The cancer is relatively rare but is highly treatable and with early diagnosis, testicular cancer can be cured. To catch this cancer early, men are encouraged to learn about early signs, learn how to do a testicular self-exam and call us if there is a suspicious lump, swelling, or pain in the area.

Signs of a testicular tumor are:

  • A painless lump in the testicle (the most common sign)
  • Swelling of the testicle (with or without pain) or a feeling of weight in the scrotum
  • Pain or a dull ache in the testicle, scrotum, or groin
  • Tenderness or changes in the male breast tissue
  • Loss of energy

Very few men who have testicular cancer felt pain at first. Many men do not tell their health care provider about these signs. On average, men wait for about five months before saying anything. Since the tumor can spread during that time, it is vital you give us a call if you notice any of these signs.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Testicular Cancer?

The best time to do a testicular self-exam is after a warm bath or shower, while standing, when the scrotum is relaxed.
At SouthWest Urology, we are equipped to handle the complexities of testicular cancer and offer comprehensive, compassionate care. Once cancer has been diagnosed, our specialists will order diagnostic testing and imaging to help determine the stage of the disease and engage oncology specialists immediately.

Our exceptional urologists will conduct the following tests to identify testicular cancer:

  • Abdominal and pelvic CT scan
  • Chest x-ray
  • Blood tests
  • Ultrasound of the scrotum

Depending on the type and stage (severity) of the testicular cancer, the following treatments may be necessary:

  • Active Surveillance – The earliest stages of testicular cancer may not require immediate treatment beyond surgery. Instead, we will schedule regular appointments to monitor recurrence of the disease to avoid unnecessary or excessive treatment.
  • Surgery (Orchiectomy) – Removal of part or all of one or both testicles.
  • Radiation – Any remaining cancer cells left after surgery are destroyed with high-energy radiation beams. Radiation typically targets the lymph nodes throughout the body in which cancer cells may have spread. We work closely with Northern Ohio Regional Cancer Center, a state-of-the-art radiation treatment center located in Brook Park, Ohio.
  • Chemotherapy/Targeted Treatments – Intravenous drugs are administered to kill remaining cancer cells left behind after surgery.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with testicular cancer, it is crucial to work with a team of testicular cancer experts who not only have extensive experience, but also a strong track record for achieving the best possible outcome for their patients. While testicular cancer is treatable, the dedicated team SouthWest Urology will diagnose and treat this form of cancer and monitor and treat cancer recurrence or complications that may occur later.

Why Choose Us?

  • Twelve highly trained, collaborative urological specialists all taking new patients
  • Four locations across the northern Ohio region
  • Consultation appointments scheduled within 5-7 days of referral
  • One-stop office for a wide range of urological conditions for both males and females
  • In-office lab testing and imaging
  • In-office medication dispensary
  • Comprehensive cancer care including kidney, ureter, bladder, prostate, and testicular cancers
  • Clinical navigation for BPH, Overactive Bladder and Prostate Cancer
  • Clinical Trials
  • We accept most insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, and VA