seeing your own doctor (GP)
Your doctor will examine your testicles and arrange for you to have a test called an ultrasound. It uses sound waves to build up a picture of the testicles. Or they might send you directly to see a specialist (called a urologist) at the hospital.
at the hospital
The specialist doctor (urologist) will examine you and arrange blood tests and an ultrasound if you haven’t already had one. You’ll need to have these tests done to diagnose testicular cancer.
An ultrasound scan of the scrotum and testicles can usually tell the difference between a cancer and a cyst (harmless lump filled with fluid).
Blood tests check for chemicals in the blood called tumour markers. Some testicular cancers (but not all) produce high levels of these. The main tumour markers are called AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) and HCG (human chorionic gonadtrophin). Blood tests are also done during treatment to check how well it’s working, and after it’s over to make sure the cancer hasn’t come back.
An operation to remove a testicle (orchidectomy) is done if your ultrasound shows the lump is almost certainly cancer. You’ll only have this operation done if it’s absolutely necessary and your specialist will explain this to you. An expert doctor will examine the removed testicle under a microscope and look for cancer cells. This op won’t stop you from having sex or becoming a dad in the future. Read more about in our section on testicular surgery.
further tests
After testicular cancer is diagnosed you’ll need some other tests:
- Blood tests to check how well organs like your liver and kidneys are working, and to check your tumour markers again.
- Chest x-rays to check your lungs are healthy (this is sometimes done before the op).
- CT, MRI, or PET scans to find out if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes at the back of your tummy (abdomen) or to anywhere else in your body.
You’ll be seen by a cancer specialist and usually a specialist nurse at a cancer treatment centre. Your test results will help your doctors plan the best treatment for you.
Having tests and waiting for the results can be a scary time. Talking about how you feel and getting support from family, friends, your specialist nurse and doctor can make it a bit easier.
