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Diagnosing and Treating Testicular Cancer at UPMC

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Urologists at UPMC offer a range of procedures and tests to accurately diagnose testicular cancer, which is a malignant tumor of one or both testicles.

The testicles are the male sex glands located inside the scrotum, the sac of skin that hangs underneath the penis. They are responsible for the production and storage of sperm and are the main source of male hormones.

Testosterone, the most abundant male hormone, controls the development of the reproductive organs and other male characteristics, such as facial and body hair, voice, and sex drive.

It is the most common cancer in young men between the ages of 15 and 35, although the disease can occur at any age. Men who have an undescended testicle (one that never moved into the scrotum) are at increased risk, even if they have had surgery to correct the condition.

A personal or family history of testicular cancer also increases the risk.

Diagnosing Testicular Cancer

In most cases, symptoms include a painless or uncomfortable lump, or an enlargement or swelling in the testicle. Men may also experience a sensation of heaviness or aching in the lower abdomen or scrotum.

These symptoms may also be caused by conditions other than testicular cancer; a correct diagnosis is very important.

Treating Testicular Cancer

In Ireland, an estimated 164 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year, marking a concerning trend of increasing incidence in recent years. This underscores the critical importance of regular self-examinations to detect any abnormalities early on. Despite the rising numbers, studies [link to https://mariekeating.ie/cancer-information/testicular-cancer] show that testicular cancer is highly treatable, boasting a remarkable cure rate of over 97%.

Urologists at UPMC provide expert diagnosis and treatment of testicular cancer. The main treatment options are surgery, external beam radiation therapy, and in more advanced cases, chemotherapy.

Surgery to remove the cancerous testicle is a common treatment for most stages of testicular cancer. Only the diseased testicle is removed; very few men ever develop a tumour in the other testicle. After surgery, the affected side of the scrotum will look flat and empty.

A number of men opt for surgery to implant a testicular prosthesis (an artificial testicle). Filled with silicone gel, the prosthesis is matched to the size of the remaining testicle and restores a natural look and feel to the scrotum. The scar from the surgery is often partly hidden by pubic hair.

Our surgeons also have expertise to remove cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes, while sparing the nerves responsible for ejaculation.

Why Choose UPMC Urology Services for Testicular Cancer

We offer high-quality, comprehensive treatment close to home. There are many other reasons to choose our services at UPMC, such as the caring, professional service that our team of consultants and nursing staff provides.

Additionally, we are long-term partners of the HSE (Health Service Executive) and private insurers and work diligently to ensure everyone has access to high-quality healthcare, delivered in a timely fashion.

Make An Appointment

To schedule an appointment, visit your GP and ask for a referral to see one of our urology consultants at the following UPMC locations: