Diagnosing Testicular Cancer
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for testicular cancer may include the following:
- ultrasound - a diagnostic technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the internal organs.
- blood tests - assessment of blood samples to check for increased levels of certain proteins and enzymes (also called serum tumor markers) to determine if cancerous cells are present, or to determine how much cancer is present. Tumor markers that may be used to detect testicular cancer include alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG).
- biopsy - a procedure in which tissue samples are removed (with a needle or during surgery) from the body for examination under a microscope; to determine if cancer or other abnormal cells are present.
When testicular tumors are present, the entire tumor, as well as the testicle and spermatic cord, may be removed to prevent the spread of cancerous cells through the blood and lymph systems.
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