Types of Testicular Cancer

The two most common types of testicular cancer are seminomas and nonseminomas. Other types of testicular cancer are rare. The two main forms of testicular cancer grow differently, spread differently, and are treated differently.

 

Types of Testicular Cancer: A Summary

In most cases, testicular cancer starts in the germ cells. Based on the characteristics of the germ cells in the tumor, testicular cancers are classified as seminomas or nonseminomas. Other types of testicular cancer are rare.
 
Seminomas may be one of three types:
 
  • Classic choriocarcinoma
  • Embryonal carcinoma teratoma
  • Yolk sac tumors.
     

Types of Testicular Cancer: Differences

Seminomas and nonseminomas grow differently, spread differently, and are treated differently. A testicular tumor that contains both seminoma and nonseminoma cells is treated as a nonseminoma.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD