Testicular Cancer Diagnosis

Typically, testicular cancer is initially identified because of a lump or swelling of the testicle, but some testicular cancers may not cause any symptoms until they are more advanced. It can also be found as a result of tests for another condition.

Initial diagnostic tests include:

• Physical examination of the testes and the surrounding lymph nodes and tissues
• Ultrasound
• Blood tests for tumor markers
• Biopsy (to obtain a tissue sample)

Imaging tests can also determine whether the cancer has spread beyond the testicles or whether treatment has been effective. These tests may include:

• Ultrasound
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Positron emission tomography (PET) scan
• Bone scan

Fox Chase Cancer Center radiologists and pathologists who specialize in reviewing testicular tissue can diagnose the type and stage of cancer.