Testicular Cancer

When detected early, testicular cancer is highly treatable and usually curable, which is why early diagnosis and treatment are so important for men of all ages. Adolescent boys and young men should be particularly aware of the signs and symptoms of the disease and perform regular testicular self-exams.

Testicular cancer is a disease in which cells become malignant, meaning cancerous, in one or both of the testicles. Testicular cancer can be broadly classified into two types: seminoma and nonseminoma. Seminomas make up about 40 percent of all testicular cancers. Nonseminomas are a group of cancers that include choriocarcinoma, embryonal carcinoma, teratoma and yolk sac tumors. A testicular cancer may have a combination of both types.

Our Approach to Testicular Cancer

UCSF's urologic oncologists are internationally recognized experts in the treatment of testicular cancer. We offer the most current diagnostic tools and treatments, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and autologous bone marrow transplant, in which we preserve a patient's bone marrow for implantation after treatment.

Our patients have access to the latest experimental therapies under evaluation in clinical trials and to specialized care focused on protecting fertility. In addition, we provide patient education and support groups. Finally, our urologists are leaders in cancer risk assessment, genetic testing and prevention.