Diagnosis and Treatment of Testicular Cancer

When testicular cancer is diagnosed in its early stages, the cure rate is nearly 99%. Then a thorough examination is warranted for patients presenting with a painless testicular mass, scrotal heaviness, a dull ache, or acute pain. Evaluation should include scrotal ultrasonography of testicular masses; if this reveals an intratesticular mass, the patient should be referred to a urologist for a definitive diagnosis, orchiectomy, and additional evaluation with abdominal computed tomography and chest radiography.

Diagnostic and treatment practices for primary care clinicians who have patients with testicular cancer are reviewed in the February 15 issue of American Family Physician.