GPs have key role in managing men with testicular cancer

Testicular cancer accounts for 1% of all malignancies in males. However, it is the most frequently occurring solid tumour in men between the ages of 15 and 34 years. Testicular germ cell tumours are classified into two main types: pure seminomas and non-seminomas which are also called non-seminomatous germ cell tumours (NSGCTs). NSGCTs are more clinically aggressive than seminomas so those patients who have both seminoma and non-seminoma components are managed according to NSGCT guidelines. Testicular tumours have excellent cure rates, even in those with metastases, as they are extremely sensitive to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Early diagnosis is, however, very important as treatment is more successful and less intensive, and long-term health consequences can be minimised. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a combination of the above, depending on the histology, presence of tumour markers and radiological staging. In most patients, there is recovery of spermatogenesis two years after completion of chemotherapy but in all patients, sperm banking should be offered before chemotherapy. The risk of developing a secondary malignancy is increased in patients treated for testicular cancer. Men who have been treated with infradiaphragmatic radiotherapy or chemotherapy also have an increased incidence of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. Patients should be screened for cardiovascular risk factors, given healthy lifestyle advice and advised not to smoke.