The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Seminoma (Testicular Cancer)

The most common germ cell tumour of the testis with an excellent prognosis.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Üroloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Seminoma (Testicular Cancer)?

Seminoma is a malignant germ cell tumour originating from the seminiferous tubules of the testis. It accounts for approximately 50% of testicular cancers and is most often seen in men aged 30-40. It carries an excellent prognosis with curative potential even in advanced stages.

Histopathologically classified as classic, anaplastic and spermatocytic subtypes. The classic seminoma (>90%) constitutes the majority. Tumour markers AFP is normal, while LDH and beta-hCG may be elevated; AFP positivity rules out pure seminoma.

Stage I disease is observed in 80% of cases and has a more than 95% cure rate; treatment options include surveillance, single-agent carboplatin or low-dose radiotherapy. Advanced stages (II-III) respond very well to BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin) chemotherapy. Cure rates exceed 90% even in metastatic disease.

Symptoms

Painless testicular mass
Heaviness in the testis
Scrotal swelling
Lower abdominal/back pain (advanced)
Gynaecomastia (with beta-hCG elevation)
Lymph node enlargement (with metastasis)
Hydrocele
Constitutional symptoms (advanced)

Risk Factors

Cryptorchidism (undescended testis)
Family history
Previous testicular cancer history
Testicular dysgenesis syndrome
Klinefelter syndrome
HIV infection
Caucasian ethnicity

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Painless testicular mass
  • Persistent change in testicular consistency
  • Newly developed scrotal swelling
  • Suspected breast development
  • Unexplained back/abdominal pain
  • Significant weight loss

Treatment Methods

01
Scrotal ultrasound (diagnostic)
02
Tumour markers (AFP, beta-hCG, LDH)
03
Radical inguinal orchiectomy (treatment of choice)
04
Staging CT (abdomen-pelvis-chest)
05
Stage I: surveillance/single-agent carboplatin/radiotherapy
06
Stage II-III: BEP chemotherapy
07
Sperm banking (preserving fertility)
08
Long-term follow-up (PET-CT for residual masses)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Üroloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Üroloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Appendicitis

Genel Cerrahi

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix causing severe pain in the lower right abdomen. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment are life-saving.

Inguinal Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Inguinal hernia is the protrusion of intestine or fat into the inguinal canal due to weakness in the abdominal wall. It can be permanently corrected with surgical treatment.

Umbilical Hernia

Genel Cerrahi

Umbilical hernia manifests as a soft swelling around the navel. While it often resolves spontaneously in infants, surgical treatment may be required in adults.

Gallstones and Cholecystectomy

Genel Cerrahi

Gallstones cause severe pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after fatty meals. They are safely treated with laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Genel Cerrahi

Hemorrhoids result from swelling of the veins in the anus; they present with blood on toilet paper, itching, and pain. Various treatments are available, from lifestyle changes to surgery.

Anal Fissure

Genel Cerrahi

Anal fissure is a tear in the thin skin of the anal canal. It presents with sharp pain and bleeding and can be healed with medical or surgical treatment.

Pilonidal Sinus

Genel Cerrahi

Pilonidal sinus consists of tunnels and tracts prone to chronic infection, formed by hair becoming embedded under the skin in the tailbone area. Surgical treatment provides a permanent solution.

Thyroid Surgery

Genel Cerrahi

Thyroid surgery involves the removal of part or all of the thyroid gland for indications such as benign nodules, goiter, and thyroid cancer.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.