What does the test for testicular cancer tell me?

Stage of tumor.: Scrotal self exam is probably the best test you can do at home. Otherwise your doctor can order an alphafetoprotein (afp), beta human Chorionic Gonadotropin (b-hcg), chest xray, and abdominal+pelvic ct scan. These help determine the stage of the tumor. In addition AFP is high only in non-seminoma, while b-hcg ican be high in both seminoma and non-seminoma.

Testicular cancer: Physical exam and ultrasound exam of the testis together are the primary tools for identifying testicular cancer. These two tools give enough information to proceed with orchiectomy. Testicular tumors are never biopsied due to propensity to spread a localized tumor prior to surgical removal.