The stage of a cancer describes its size and whether it has spread beyond where it started
What is staging?
The stage of a cancer is a term used to describe:
- its size
- whether it has spread from where it started.
Knowing the stage of the cancer helps the doctors decide on the best treatment for you.
There are several staging systems for testicular cancer. One commonly used system in the UK is the Royal Marsden staging system. We have given a simple version of this below.
Stage 1 testicular cancer
The cancer may be any size and is only in the testicle.
These cancers are divided further into different groups depending on whether tumour markers stay raised after surgery.
Stage 2 testicular cancer
The cancer has spread to the lymph nodes at the back of the tummy (abdomen), called the retroperitoneal lymph nodes.
These cancers are divided further into different groups depending on:
- the size of the tumour
- the lymph nodes affected
- the level of tumour markers.
Stage 3 testicular cancer
The cancer has spread to lymph nodes in the chest, or higher up. For example, these could be lymph nodes in your armpit or neck.
These cancers are divided further into different groups depending on:
- the size of the tumour
- the lymph nodes affected
- the level of tumour markers.
Stage 4 testicular cancer
The cancer has spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. When the cancer spreads, it is known as metastasis.
How we can help
If you have cancer, you may be able to get a Macmillan Grant to help with the extra costs of cancer. Find out who can apply and how to access our grants.