In short
The first treatment is almost always surgery to remove the affected testicle. Some men then have chemotherapy or, less often, radiotherapy, depending on the type and stage. Surveillance with scans and blood tests is used when the chance of leftover cancer is low. More than 98% of men survive early disease. World Aid Network funds this care overseas for patients who cannot pay.
A specialist germ-cell team plans treatment. Seminoma and non-seminoma are treated slightly differently. Both have excellent outcomes in the UK.
What is an orchidectomy?
The testicle is removed through a groin incision. A prosthesis can be offered. You can usually go home the same day or the next.
When is chemotherapy used?
If markers stay up, or scans show spread to lymph nodes or lungs, short courses of chemotherapy are highly effective. Hair loss and fertility effects should be discussed before the first cycle.
Help a patient afford cancer care
Gifts go to the Cancer Emergency Appeal’s wider fund for patients who cannot pay. They do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Donate to cancer careWhat follow-up looks like
Blood tests and CT scans continue for years because late relapse is uncommon but possible. Attend the appointments even when you feel well.
Key takeaways
- Surgery comes first for almost every patient.
- Chemotherapy still cures most men with spread.
- Early-stage survival is over 98%.
Care like this is out of reach for millions
The diagnosis, screening and treatment described here are routine in the UK. In Pakistan, Indonesia and Malaysia, poverty can put them out of reach. The Cancer Emergency Appeal raises funds towards clinically recommended care for patients who cannot pay; gifts go to the wider fund and do not buy a guaranteed treatment or result.
Frequently asked questions
Will I need testosterone after surgery?
Usually not if the other testicle is healthy. Levels are checked if you have symptoms.
Can testicular cancer come back in the other side?
Rarely. You will be taught to check the remaining testicle.
Do you fund chemotherapy overseas?
Yes, when a licensed partner oncologist has recommended a protocol the hospital can deliver.
Editorial summary of published sources. A named oncology clinician has not signed off this guide. Use it to prepare questions for your healthcare team, not to diagnose symptoms or choose treatment. Editorial responsibility: Kaiser Khan. Updated 4 October 2026.
What are the sources for this guide?
Follow the original guidance for its evidence, dates and limitations. General background references are not a clinical review of this page.