Overview Of Spermatocele (Epididymal Cyst)
Spermatocele (Epididymal Cyst) is synonymous with the term Scrotal Growth. A scrotal mass is a lump or bulge that can be felt in the scrotum. The scrotum is the sac that contains the testicles.
Commonly Associated With
Testicular mass; Scrotal growth
Causes Of Spermatocele (Epididymal Cyst)
A scrotal mass can be noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant).
Benign scrotal masses include:
- Hematocele — blood collection in the scrotum
- Hydrocele — fluid collection in the scrotum
- Spermatocele — a cyst-like growth in the scrotum that contains fluid and sperm cells
- Varicocele — a varicose vein along the spermatic cord
- Epididymal cyst — swelling in the duct behind the testes that transports sperm
- Scrotal abscess — a collection of pus within the wall of the scrotum
Scrotal masses can be caused by:
- Abnormal bulge in the groin (inguinal hernia)
- Diseases such as epididymitis or orchitis
- Injury to the scrotum
- Testicular torsion
- Tumors
- Infections
Symptoms Of Spermatocele (Epididymal Cyst)
Symptoms include:
- Enlarged scrotum
- Painless or painful testicle lump
Exams & Tests
During a physical exam, the health care provider may feel growth in the scrotum. This growth may:
- Feel tender
- Be smooth, twisted, or irregular
- Feel liquid, firm, or solid
- Be only on one side of the body
- The inguinal lymph nodes in the groin on the same side as the growth may be enlarged or tender.
The following tests may be done:
- Biopsy
- Urine culture
- Ultrasound of the scrotum
Treatment Of Spermatocele (Epididymal Cyst)
A provider should evaluate all scrotal masses. However, many types of masses are harmless and do not need to be treated unless you are having symptoms.
In some cases, the condition may improve with self-care, antibiotics, or pain relievers. You need to get medical attention right away for growth in the scrotum that is painful.
If the scrotal mass is part of the testicle, it has a higher risk of being cancerous. Surgery may be needed to remove the testicle if this is the case.
A jockstrap or scrotal support may help relieve the pain or discomfort from the scrotal mass. A hematocele, hydrocele, spermatocele, or scrotal abscess may sometimes need surgery to remove the collection of blood, fluid, pus, or dead cells.
