Treatment
The treatment options for testicular cancer depend on the type and stage of cancer.
An orchiectomy (surgical removal of the affected testis) is the first stage of treatment for all suspected cases of testicular cancer. The removed testis is then sent to a pathology laboratory to confirm the stage and type of cancer.
In recent years, surveillance (careful monitoring) has become a more popular option after orchiectomy for localised testicular cancer. This is where the man is checked regularly to assess whether the cancer has moved elsewhere in the body, including the other testis.
Chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be given after surgery to kill off any cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body. The level or amount of chemotherapy and radiotherapy will be different for each man and will depend on the stage and type of cancer.
The doctor will look at each case individually to assess the chance of the cancer moving from the testes before deciding on the best treatment.