Where Does Testicular Cancer Spread To?

Testicular cancer that reaches an advanced stage may spread, or metastasize, to distant areas of the body. While most cancers range in stage from 1 to 4, testicular cancer stages range from 1 to 3. Stage 3 testicular cancer may remain localized in one or both of the testicles, or it may have spread to nearby or distant areas of the body. When it spreads to distant areas, it is known as metastatic testicular cancer.

There are specific areas of the body where metastatic testicular cancer is more likely to be found. One of the first areas is often the lymph nodes located closest to the testicles. In more advanced cases, metastatic testicular cancer may also be found in the distant lymph nodes in the neck, chest or pelvis. Additional areas where testicular cancer may metastasize include the:

• Lungs – Other than the lymph nodes, the lungs are the most common location where testicular cancer spreads to.
• Bones – In advanced cases, testicular cancer may spread to the bones. This is also called testicular cancer bone metastasis.
• Liver – Another area where advanced testicular cancer may spread is the lungs.
• Brain – Testicular cancer may spread to the brain if the type of tumor is a choriocarcinoma. This type of tumor typically does not grow large, but can rapidly spread through the blood.

Treatment for metastatic testicular cancer

Although metastatic testicular cancer is the most advanced stage of this malignancy, it is still considered treatable. Treatment often consists of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or a combination of two or more treatment methods. The specific treatment that is recommended for you will depend on many individual factors, including where the cancer has spread to, the size and type of tumor and your individual health.

If you have been diagnosed with metastatic testicular cancer and would like a second opinion or want to learn about receiving treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center, fill out a new patient registration form online or call 1-888-663-3488. We welcome patients with or without a referral.