Delayed presentation of testicular tumors.

Germ cell testicular tumors constitute a highly lethal group of neoplasms. Although recent diagnostic and therapeutic developments have altered the prognosis in this disease, delay in diagnosis and occasional mismanagement of patients continue to inhibit further improvement in survival. A ten-year retrospective study of germ cell tumors of the testis at West Virginia University Medical Center confirms confirms the need for patient education and physician awareness of the potential seriousness of all testicular masses. A high index of suspicion and an aggressive approach to management are advocated to improve long-term survival.