Diagnostic Test
Tumour Markers for Testicular Cancer
A look at testicular cancer tumour marker blood tests (AFP, HCG, and LDH). Discover how UK specialists use these vital markers to diagnose, stage, and monitor your care.
Key Takeaways
- A look at testicular cancer tumour marker blood tests (AFP, HCG, and LDH). Discover how UK specialists use these vital markers to diagnose, stage, and monitor your care.
- We offer specialist interpretation and related treatments. Book a consultation to discuss your options.
Overview
About Tumour Markers for Testicular Cancer
A tumour marker test is a routine blood test used to look for specific proteins and enzymes that are produced by certain types of testicular cancer cells.
When a tumour is present, it often releases these tracking substances into your bloodstream in higher-than-normal amounts. By taking a small blood sample, doctors can measure three specific markers that act as highly accurate warning signs or indicators: Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG), and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH).
Test Information
Understanding Your Test
A detailed guide to your diagnostic procedure — from essential preparation and the purpose of the test to safety considerations and what to expect during the process.
This is a standard blood test performed by a healthcare professional (a nurse, doctor, or phlebotomist) at your local clinic or hospital.
You will sit down comfortably, and a soft, stretchy band will be wrapped around your upper arm to help locate a suitable vein. The nurse will clean your skin and gently insert a fine needle into a vein on the inside of your elbow to draw a small amount of blood into a few sample tubes. The needle is only in place for a few moments. Once finished, they will remove the needle, apply firm pressure with a piece of gauze to prevent bruising, and place a small plaster over the area. You will likely have this test repeated several times over the course of your specialist care to track how your numbers change.
The test is incredibly fast and involves minimal physical discomfort. You will feel a quick, sharp scratch as the needle enters your vein, followed by a minor pressing sensation while the tubes are filled.
The physical discomfort is over within a minute. If you feel anxious about needles, are worried about your results, or have a history of feeling faint during blood tests, please tell the clinical team beforehand. They are exceptionally understanding and will gladly have you lie down comfortably on a couch to make you feel safe and relaxed.
Your GP or urologist will arrange this test if you have noticed a lump, swelling, or heaviness in your testicle, or if an ultrasound scan has shown an unusual area that needs further checking.
According to UK national guidelines, these blood tests are absolutely vital for multiple reasons. They help confirm a diagnosis, assist specialists in figuring out the exact type of testicular cancer you have, and help show whether it has spread (staging). Furthermore, because these marker levels drop when the cancer is successfully treated, they are used regularly throughout your journey to track how well your body is responding to treatments and to monitor your long-term recovery.
At a glance
Preparation required
- No fasting is necessary – you are completely free to eat and drink normally before your blood test.
- You do not need to stop taking any of your usual daily medications unless your urology team explicitly tells you to do so.
- Drink plenty of water before your appointment, as being well-hydrated makes it much easier for the nurse to find a vein.
Risks or considerations
- There are no serious physical risks or long-term side effects from a routine blood draw.
- You might develop a tiny, harmless bruise or mild tenderness around the puncture site, which disappears within a few days.
- Normal markers do not rule out cancer: Some genuine testicular cancers do not produce any tracking proteins at all. This means that a completely normal blood result cannot rule out cancer on its own if you still have a physical lump.
What it can help diagnose
- Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP): This protein is frequently raised in a type of testicular cancer called non-seminoma. It is important to know that AFP is never elevated if you have a "pure" seminoma type of cancer.
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG): This is the same hormone measured in pregnancy tests, but it is also released by various testicular tumours. It can be elevated in both seminomas and non-seminomas.
- Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH): This is a general enzyme found throughout your body. While it is less specific than AFP or HCG, a raised level tells your specialist about overall cell activity and the potential size or growth rate of a tumour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this test and what to expect
3 questions
Because finding a testicular lump requires swift action, these tests are highly prioritised by laboratories. Your urologist will usually receive your results within 2 to 4 working days.
Reviewed 31 May 2026
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If you have surgery to remove an affected testicle, your medical team will monitor your blood regularly. Seeing your marker levels drop back to a completely normal range gives your doctors reassurance that the tumour has been successfully removed. Tracking them long-term ensures that if any cancer cells return, they are spotted and treated immediately.
Reviewed 31 May 2026
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es. While elevated markers are highly indicative of a tumour when paired with an abnormal scan, minor fluctuations in things like LDH can sometimes be caused by intense exercise, liver inflammation, or recent physical injuries. Your specialist is highly trained to look at the overall pattern of your results rather than just a single number.
Reviewed 31 May 2026
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