Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is a type of cancer that occurs on the testicles (testes), which are located inside the scrotum, a loose bag of skin beneath the penis.

Testicular cancer can be a scary diagnosis for those with male reproductive organs, but it is usually highly treatable, even when the cancer has spread beyond the testicle.

Frequent indicators of testicular cancer include a lump or enlargement in either testicle, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in the abdomen or groin, pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum, or enlargement or tenderness of the breasts.

Specialists in the GW Cancer Center’s Urologic Oncology Program use the newest technology to diagnose and treat testicular cancer based on each individual’s needs.

Specialty Care for Testicular Cancer

The urologic oncology specialists at the GW Cancer Center guide you through diagnosis and treatment of testicular cancer. Every patient has different needs so we offer therapies that will result in the best possible outcomes for each individual.

Our unique program offers a full spectrum of men’s health evaluation and treatment. We encourage pre-treatment discussions about safeguarding future fertility. And we place a large emphasis on helping cancer survivors maintain their sexual function following treatment by doing a complete hormonal evaluation before cancer treatment.

Testicular Cancer Program Information

Collaborative Care

• Patient navigators support patients who have been diagnosed with testicular cancer. Navigators steer patients through the process. They even help them with the financial aspects of a cancer diagnosis, such as working with insurers.
• Patients who have received a diagnosis of testicular cancer should promptly consult our male fertility specialists prior to undergoing treatment. You can contact a specialist at saveyoursperm@mfa.gwu.edu and expect a prompt response. Our specialists will provide a quick evaluation and options for fertility preservation. You can then begin cancer treatment with little or no delay, confident that you have taken every step possible to allow yourself the option of children in your future.

Clinical Research

Patients in clinical trials benefit from the latest developments in the field.

GW Cancer Center partners with these organizations to offer clinical trials for patients with testicular cancer:

• The Genitourinary Multidisciplinary D.C. Regional Oncology Project (GUMDROP)
• The National Cancer Institute (NCI) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH)
• The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG)

Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment

GW Cancer Center offers advanced options for testicular cancer:

• We perform partial removal of the testicle (partial orchiectomies) in men who are eligible for this procedure.
• Our specialists offer testosterone replacement and other hormone therapies to ensure sexual health and performance after treatment.
• We perform a specialized sperm analysis and retrieval procedure to obtain viable sperm that can be stored and used after cancer treatment is complete.

Leading Edge Technology

GW Cancer Center invests in state-of-the-art technologies for cancer diagnosis and treatment:

• GW was the first in the area to use the da Vinci® robot for minimally invasive urologic surgery. We have performed the highest number of robotic cases in the greater Washington, D.C., area.