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Testicular Seminoma

A germ cell tumor of the testis with high cure rates and excellent radio/chemotherapy response.

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 Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Testicular Seminoma?

Seminoma accounts for approximately 50% of testicular germ cell tumors and arises from atypical germ cells of the testis. It typically presents in men between 25-45 years, slightly older than non-seminomatous germ cell tumors. The tumor is usually unilateral; bilateral disease occurs in 1-2% of patients.

Histologically, classic seminoma is composed of uniform cells with clear cytoplasm and round nuclei, accompanied by a lymphocytic infiltrate. Spermatocytic seminoma is a distinct, indolent variant of older men. Tumor markers are usually negative for AFP (any AFP elevation suggests a non-seminomatous component) but beta-hCG may be modestly elevated, and LDH reflects tumor burden.

Treatment is stage-driven. Stage I disease is managed with radical inguinal orchiectomy followed by surveillance, single-agent carboplatin, or adjuvant para-aortic radiotherapy. Stage II disease is treated with radiotherapy (IIA/IIB low-volume) or BEP/EP chemotherapy (IIB high-volume, IIC). Stage III disease relies on cisplatin-based chemotherapy. Cure rates exceed 95% across all stages, making testicular cancer one of the most curable solid tumors.

Symptoms

Painless testicular swelling or lump
Heaviness or dragging sensation in the scrotum
Mild ache or discomfort in the testis or lower abdomen
Hydrocele formation
Gynecomastia (with hCG-secreting tumors)
Back pain (retroperitoneal nodal disease)
Cough or dyspnea (pulmonary metastases)
Constitutional symptoms in advanced disease

Risk Factors

Cryptorchidism (undescended testis)
Family history of testicular cancer
Previous testicular germ cell tumor (contralateral risk)
Klinefelter syndrome
HIV infection
Caucasian ethnicity
Carcinoma in situ of the testis (germ cell neoplasia in situ)
Testicular dysgenesis syndrome

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Painless testicular mass at any age
  • Persistent testicular discomfort
  • Asymmetric testicular size or nodule
  • Hydrocele in young adults
  • Gynecomastia with palpable testicular abnormality
  • Back pain with abdominal mass on examination

Treatment Methods

01
Radical inguinal orchiectomy as initial treatment
02
Stage I: surveillance, single-dose carboplatin, or adjuvant para-aortic radiotherapy
03
Stage IIA/IIB: para-aortic and ipsilateral iliac radiotherapy or BEP chemotherapy
04
Advanced disease: BEP (bleomycin, etoposide, cisplatin) — 3 to 4 cycles based on IGCCCG risk
05
Salvage chemotherapy or high-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell rescue for relapse
06
Sperm banking before initiation of any therapy
07
Long-term surveillance: tumor markers, imaging, and clinical exam
08
Survivorship care addressing cardiovascular, infertility, and second-cancer risks

Which Department to Visit?

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

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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.