Scrotal masses

Causes and Risks:
The potential cause of a scrotal mass may be varied and involve either benign or malignant processes. A benign scrotal mass may be referred to as a hematocele or a spermatocele. A hematocele is a collection of blood within the scrotum . A spermatocele is a cyst-like mass within the scrotum that contains fluid and dead sperm cells.

Possible causes of a scrotal mass include inflammatory or infectious diseases (for example, epididymitis ), physical trauma to the scrotum, herniation ( inguinal hernia ), or tumors. The incidence and risk factors vary greatly, depending upon the cause.

Prevention:
  • Scrotal masses (aggregations of cells) caused by a condition that may be linked to a sexually transmitted disease (for example, epididymitis ) may be prevented by practicing safer sexual behaviors .
  • Scrotal masses resulting from local physical trauma may be prevented by wearing protective gear (such as an athletic cup) for high-risk activities.
  • Many causes of scrotal masses are not preventable. However, periodic testicular self examination can assist in early diagnosis, treatment and therefore improved outcome.
  • All males, 15 years or older, who are not aware of how to perform testicular self examination should be taught how to do so by a physician.



Symptoms:



Signs and Tests:
A physical examination shows a mass within scrotum which is:

  • typically unilateral (only on one side)
  • tender or non-tender
  • uniform, smooth, tortuous, or irregular
  • fluctuant, firm, or solid

The groin (inguinal) lymph nodes may or may not be enlarged or tender on the involved side.



Treatment:
ALL scrotal masses need to be evaluated by a primary health care provider. Hematoceles and spermatoceles are usually benign and do not require treatment. Acute conditions may respond to local comfort measures and, in some situations, antibiotics and/or pain relievers . A scrotal support (jock strap) may provide some relief of the pain or discomfrot associated with the scrotal mass. A hematocele or spermatocele may occasionally require surgery to remove the collection of blood or dead cells.

See also:



Prognosis:
The majority of conditions that cause scrotal masses are either of no consequence or can be easily treated with a high resolution rate. Even testicular cancer , with early diagnosis and treatment, can be cured.

Complications:

  • Varicoceles may lead to infertility .
  • Some aggressive forms of testicular cancer may metastasize (move to other organs such as the lungs or liver) before a scrotal mass is large enough to be detected.



Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if you are male, of any age, noting any kind of lump or bulge within the scrotum .