Testicular Cancer Dictionary

AFP level: Alpha-fetoproteins are considered "tumor markers" as these proteins are often at higher levels in the bloodstream of males with nonseminomatous testicular cancer, but will drop following successful surgery; also present at higher percentages when other are diseases are present.

atrophy: The shrinkage of an organ or other body part and in the case of testicular involvement may be a sign of aging, injury or disease; can also result from the treatment of disease.

choriocarcinoma: Unusual form of germ cell cancer that on its own is highly aggressive, but when present in mixed tumor form may be less harmful.

cryptorchidism: The failure of one or both testicles to descend into the scrotum; a rare occurrence during fetal development that typically resolves itself within three months to one year, but may also increase the risk of testicular cancer at a later period.

epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR): Epidermal growth factor receptor is a cell surface protein that may become active on specifically mutant cells and, therefore becomes a marker for certain types of testicular and other cancers.

embryonal carcinoma: A cancer that begins as a germ cell tumor in the testes, with some similarities to a malformed embryo and is often found with rapid cell expansion, spreading into other parts of the body including the lymph nodes.

endodermal sinus tumors: Also known as yolk sac tumors and may be benign, but are typically malignant and may be more frequently found in children than young men.

epididymis: The tube attached to the back side of a testicle that acts as storage for sperm while they mature and gain strength.

epididymitis: A common inflammation of the epididymis that can become painful and should receive medical attention to rule out other causes, such as testicular cancer. Can also become a chronic condition that requires surgery.