Question 1

What is Testicular cancer?

Accepted Answer

Testicular cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in one or both testicles, most commonly affecting men between ages 15-35. It is caused by abnormal cell growth in the testicles, with certain types producing tumor markers like Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) and beta-hCG. The Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Serum, Tumor Marker test is the most important blood test for detecting and monitoring non-seminoma testicular cancers.

Question 2

What causes testicular cancer?

Accepted Answer

Testicular cancer is caused by abnormal cell growth in the testicles when DNA mutations trigger cells to multiply uncontrollably and form a tumor. Risk factors include undescended testicles (cryptorchidism), family history of testicular cancer, abnormal testicular development conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, and being of Caucasian ethnicity. The exact trigger for these DNA mutations remains unknown, but the combination of genetic predisposition and developmental factors appears to play a significant role in cancer development.

Question 3

What is the best blood test for testicular cancer?

Accepted Answer

The Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP), Serum, Tumor Marker test is the most important blood test for testicular cancer because it detects elevated AFP levels produced by non-seminoma testicular cancers, including embryonal carcinoma, yolk sac tumors, and some mixed germ cell tumors. This test is essential for initial assessment, monitoring treatment response, and detecting recurrence. Additionally, the Testosterone, Free, Bioavailable and Total, LC/MS/MS test is valuable because testicular cancer can disrupt normal hormone production, and monitoring testosterone levels helps assess how the tumor is affecting testicular function and overall hormonal health.

Question 4

When should I get tested for testicular cancer?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you notice a painless lump or swelling in either testicle, experience a dull ache in your lower abdomen or groin, feel heaviness in your scrotum, or notice sudden fluid collection in your scrotum. Testing is also important if you have risk factors like undescended testicles or a family history of testicular cancer, especially if you are between ages 15-35 when testicular cancer is most common. Early detection through blood tests measuring tumor markers like AFP can help identify cancer sooner and improve treatment outcomes.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of testicular cancer?

Accepted Answer

Testicular cancer symptoms include a painless lump or swelling in one or both testicles, which is the most common sign. You might notice a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache in your lower abdomen or groin area, sudden fluid buildup in the scrotum, or breast tenderness and growth from hormone changes. Some men experience back pain if the cancer has spread to lymph nodes. Many cases are discovered during self-examination or routine physical exams, as early-stage testicular cancer often causes no pain or discomfort.

Question 6

Who is at risk for testicular cancer?

Accepted Answer

Men between ages 15-35 face the highest risk for testicular cancer, though it can occur at any age. Risk factors include having an undescended testicle (cryptorchidism), even if surgically corrected, a family history of testicular cancer in a father or brother, abnormal testicle development conditions, being of Caucasian ethnicity, and having a personal history of cancer in one testicle. Men with HIV infection and those who are tall may also have slightly increased risk, though testicular cancer can develop in men without any known risk factors.

Question 7

What happens if testicular cancer is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated testicular cancer will continue to grow and spread beyond the testicle to lymph nodes in the abdomen and pelvis, then potentially to distant organs including the lungs, liver, brain, and bones. This progression significantly reduces survival rates and makes treatment more difficult and intensive. Advanced testicular cancer can cause severe abdominal pain, breathing difficulties, neurological problems, and life-threatening complications. However, testicular cancer is highly treatable even in advanced stages, with cure rates exceeding 95% when detected early, making timely diagnosis and treatment essential for the best outcomes.

Question 8

Can testicular cancer be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests alone cannot definitively diagnose testicular cancer, but they are essential tools in the diagnostic process and ongoing monitoring. Tests measuring tumor markers like Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) and beta-hCG can indicate the presence of certain testicular cancer types, particularly non-seminomas. Diagnosis requires a combination of physical examination, ultrasound imaging, and blood tests, with final confirmation through surgical removal and pathological examination of the affected testicle. Blood tests are crucial for staging the cancer, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and detecting recurrence after treatment.

Question 9

How is testicular cancer treated?

Accepted Answer

Testicular cancer treatment begins with surgical removal of the affected testicle (orchiectomy), which serves as both treatment and definitive diagnosis through pathological examination. Depending on the cancer type and stage, additional treatment may include surveillance with regular monitoring, radiation therapy for seminomas, chemotherapy for more advanced cases or non-seminomas, or lymph node removal surgery. Most men maintain normal testosterone levels and fertility with one healthy testicle, and modern treatments achieve cure rates exceeding 95% even for advanced cases, making testicular cancer one of the most curable cancers.

Question 10

How can I prevent testicular cancer?

Accepted Answer

Testicular cancer cannot be completely prevented because the exact causes are not fully understood, but you can take steps for early detection. Perform monthly testicular self-examinations starting in your teens to detect any lumps, swelling, or changes early when treatment is most effective. If you have risk factors like undescended testicles, maintain regular check-ups with your healthcare provider. Surgical correction of undescended testicles during childhood may reduce risk but does not eliminate it entirely. Early detection through self-examination and awareness of symptoms remains the most effective strategy for catching testicular cancer in its most treatable stages.

Question 11

What can I do at home for testicular cancer concerns?

Accepted Answer

At home, perform monthly testicular self-examinations by gently rolling each testicle between your thumb and fingers after a warm shower when the scrotum is relaxed, feeling for any lumps, swelling, or changes in size or consistency. If you notice anything unusual, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider promptly rather than waiting. While home care cannot treat testicular cancer, maintaining overall health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco can support your body during treatment. Keep a journal of any symptoms or changes you notice to share with your doctor, and consider banking sperm before treatment if fertility preservation is important to you.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Testicular Cancer Blood Test

What is Testicular cancer?

What causes testicular cancer?

What is the best blood test for testicular cancer?

When should I get tested for testicular cancer?

References

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