Urologic Conditions

Testicular Cancer

Cancers of the kidney, bladder, prostate, and testicles are considered urologic cancers. Although not as commonly publicized as breast cancer, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men of all ethnicities and one of the leading causes of death when it goes undiagnosed. Bladder cancer is also one of the most common forms of cancer in both men and women, most commonly effecting men and women over 65. Testicular cancer, recently brought into the spotlight by pro-cyclist Lance Armstrong’s public battle with the disease, affects over 8,000 men annually but has a 95% survival rate if diagnosed early.

Although testicular cancer is one of the rarer forms of cancer in men, it is the most common cancer in men ages 15-34. Testicular cancer is highly treatable, even if it has moved beyond the testicle, but it is important to perform regular self checks and see your doctor for an annual physical to ensure early detection.

If cancer is suspected after examination, your doctor will order a blood test and it is possible he/she will decide that the removal of the testicle is the best form of action.

Surgical Procedures

Radical Inguinal Orchiectomy
During this procedure your doctor will remove the affected testicle through an incision in the groin. Your doctor may also decide that the lymph nodes and tissue in the surrounding area must be removed as well. Often this is the only surgery necessary in cases of testicular cancer and your doctor will then closely monitor your progress during frequent follow-up visits, CT scans, and blood tests over the following 2-3 years.

In some cases, doctors will require the patient to undergo further treatment in the form of Radiation Therapy of Chemotherapy. For more information about these treatments, please see the National Cancer Institute website.