Questions to ask: Testicular cancer

Diagnosis

• Is my cancer a seminoma or a nonseminoma?
• If it is a nonseminoma, which cell types are in it? Is there teratoma?
• What were my AFP, hCG, and LDH levels before and after surgery?
• What stage is my cancer?
• If it has spread, what is my risk group: good, intermediate, or poor?
• Was there lymphovascular invasion (cancer in small blood or lymph vessels)?
• Do I need a brain MRI or other scans?
• Can I bank sperm before any more treatment?
• Should I be treated at a center that sees many people with testicular cancer?
• Should my brothers or sons be checked or taught to examine themselves?

Before

• Is surveillance a good choice for me, or do I need more treatment?
• What are the pros and cons of surveillance, chemotherapy, radiation, or RPLND for my stage?
• How many cycles of chemotherapy will I get, and how long will it take?
• Is bleomycin safe for me, or should I get a different combination?
• How will treatment affect my fertility and sex life?
• Should I get a testicular prosthesis?
• Will I need a hearing test or lung test before starting?
• How will treatment affect school, work, or sports?
• Are there clinical trials I could join?
• Who should I call with problems at night or on weekends?
• What costs should I expect, and who can help with insurance or sperm banking costs?

During

• How will we know if the treatment is working?
• How often will my tumor markers be checked?
• Which side effects should I call about right away?
• What should I do if I get a fever?
• How can I protect my hearing, lungs, and kidneys?
• Will I need growth factor shots for my blood counts?
• Will I need surgery after chemotherapy to remove a leftover mass?
• What should my caregiver watch for at home?
• Can I see a counselor or social worker?

After

• What is my follow-up schedule for exams, markers, and scans?
• What signs could mean the cancer has come back?
• How should I check my other testicle?
• Should my testosterone be checked?
• What long-term effects should I watch for, like heart, hearing, or kidney problems?
• When can I try to have children, and should my sperm be tested again?
• Who will be my main doctor for long-term survivor care?
• Where can I find support groups for young adult survivors?

Last updated: 2026-10-27. Medically reviewed by Veli Bakalov, MD, medical oncologist (October 2026). General education from Step by Step, the patient portal of HemeOncBuddy.