AFP normal value- < 16 ngm / ml

        HCG normal value –  <1ng/ml

• Testicular Ultrasonography- A scrotal ultrasound can detect a lump, identify its location and evaluate its size and nature.

• CT Scan- More sophisticated imaging studies, such as the CT scans of the chest; abdomen and pelvic area help to identify the extent of the cancer spread or metastases. Lesions as small as 1 mm can be detected by some of these imaging machines.

• CT Scan or MRI of the brain is a must for patients with stage III or stage IV disease.

• Chest X-ray is also done as part of the routine tests.

• Inguinal Orchiectomy is the surgical excision of the testicles along with the associated structures, such as the epididymis. A biopsy is usually not preferred as it may result in the spread of cancer cells. The resected specimen is subjected to a histological examination, by a pathologist, for differential diagnosis.

About Tumor Markers:- • 80 to 85% of  Testicular Tumors have Positive Markers • Most of Non-Seminomas have raised markers • Elevated markers after orchidectomy means Residual disease or Stage II / III disease • Elevation of markers after Lymphadenectomy means a Stage III disease • Degree of marker elevation Appears to be directly proportional to tumor burden • Markers indicate Histology of Tumor. If AFP elevated in Seminomas it means tumor has non-Seminomatous elements • Negative tumor markers turning positive on follow up usually indicates tumor recurrence