Assessment and staging
A testicular lump or change in size should be evaluated promptly. Ultrasound and blood tumour markers are commonly part of the assessment. Removal of the affected testicle through a groin incision often provides both initial treatment and a definitive tissue diagnosis.
The distinction between seminoma and non-seminoma, imaging and tumour markers guides subsequent decisions.
Treatment after the diagnosis
Care may involve surveillance, chemotherapy, selected radiotherapy or lymph node surgery, depending on the type and stage. Not every patient needs all these treatments.
Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) removes lymph nodes in the back of the abdomen. A robotic approach may be considered in selected cases, taking account of the disease burden and previous treatment.
Fertility, hormones and recovery
Discuss sperm banking before treatment that may affect fertility. Your questions may also cover testosterone, sexual function, ejaculation and whether a testicular prosthesis is appropriate.
Dr. Sachin’s listed areas of expertise include testicular cancer and robotic RPLND. Consultation can clarify the purpose of an operation and how it fits into the overall oncology plan.
Questions for your appointment
- What type of tumour is suspected or confirmed?
- Which tumour marker results are needed before and after treatment?
- Should fertility preservation be arranged now?
- What would surveillance require?
- If lymph node surgery is proposed, what are its aims and functional risks?
Common questions
Can one healthy testicle be enough?
Many people retain normal hormone production and fertility with one healthy testicle, but baseline function and additional treatment influence this.
Is surveillance simply doing nothing?
No. It is an organised programme of tests and appointments designed to detect changes requiring treatment.