Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy in young men with excellent survival rates. However, this success is associated with significant treatment-related toxicities. This review explores the current landscape of testicular cancer management, focusing on strategies to minimize long-term morbidity while maintaining oncologic efficacy. We reviewed contemporary literature and clinical trial data concerning treatment-related burdens (chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery), advancements in surgical techniques, novel biomarkers, and evolving surveillance protocols. Conventional therapies like platinum-based chemotherapy and radiotherapy are associated with dose-dependent toxicities, including cardiovascular disease, ototoxicity, and secondary malignancies. In contrast, retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) offers a curative option with minimal long-term systemic toxicity albeit surgical risks. Recent trials (surgery in early metastatic seminoma [SEMS], COTRIMS, Primetest) demonstrate that primary RPLND in Stage II seminoma can significantly reduce the cumulative need for chemotherapy. Furthermore, surgical refinements such as the midline extraperitoneal approach and robotic-assisted techniques have reduced perioperative morbidity and hospital stays. The emergence of microRNA-371 as a potential sensitive biomarker shows promise in identifying micrometastatic disease, monitoring treatment response, and reducing surgical overtreatment for benign pathology. Finally, trials like TRISST and WATChmAN support less intensive surveillance through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), reduced imaging frequency, and telehealth. The paradigm of testicular cancer care is shifting toward emphasis on toxicity reduction. By integrating advanced surgical techniques, de-escalated systemic therapies, and biology-based decision-making through novel biomarkers, clinicians can optimize survivorship outcomes without compromising oncologic outcomes in this young patient population.
Urologic oncology. 2026 Jun 09 [Epub ahead of print]
Kai Wen Cheng, Jersey-Kate Castillo, Antoin Douglawi, Martin Hofmann, Herbert C Ruckle, Gagan Prakash, Brian Hu, Muhannad Alsyouf
Department of Urology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA., Division of Urologic Oncology, Department of Surgical Oncology, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India., Department of Urology, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA. Electronic address: .