How is testicular cancer treated?

Making treatment decisions

In recent years, much progress has been made in treating testicular cancer. Surgical methods have been refined, and doctors know more about the best ways to use chemotherapy and radiation to treat different types of testicular cancer.

After the cancer is diagnosed and staged, your cancer care team will discuss treatment options with you. You should take time and think about all of the choices. The type and stage of the cancer, as well as your overall physical health are factors to consider when choosing your treatment plan. When time permits, getting a second opinion is often a good idea. It can give you more information and help you feel good about the chosen treatment plan. Some insurance companies may require a second opinion before they will agree to pay for treatments.

Where you are treated is important. There is no substitute for experience. You have the best chance for a good outcome if you go to a hospital that treats many testicular cancer patients.

The 3 main methods of treatment for testicular cancer are:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy
• Chemotherapy (chemo)

The first part of this section describes the various types of treatments used for testicular cancers. This is followed by a description of the most common approaches used based on the type and extent of the disease.