A spermatocele develops in the small tube situated in the upper testicle that collects and transports sperm. This type of cyst is usually painless and is filled with a white or clear fluid that may contain sperm. They are usually small in diameter. The cause is not known.
The chances of developing a spermatocele increase with age and are most common in men between the ages of 40 and 60, are common and affect three out of every 10 men in the US. They do not cause infertility and rarely require treatment.
But because a spermatocele rarely produces symptoms it is typically only discovered during a self-exam or routine exam by your doctor. When they occur you may experience discomfort, a feeling of heaviness and pain.
Treatment for a Spermatocele
Sometimes surgery is required to remove spermatocele cysts. A procedure called a spermatocelectomy is performed on an outpatient basis, using local or general anesthetic. However, most spermatoceles do not require treatment. If you experience discomfort, your doctor may recommend that you take over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Scrotal Masses
These are areas of fluid or solid material in, on or around your testicles. Although they may be harmless, scrotal masses may be cancerous. Signs of scrotal masses include a lump or swelling in the scrotum, along with pain or tenderness. You should consult your doctor if you have any pain, swelling or lumps in your testicles or groin area, even if a lump in your testicle isn't painful. Many testicular cancers aren't initially painful.
Causes
Treatment depends on the cause; these may include cysts, infection, inflammation, trauma, inguinal hernia and tumors. These tumors may be non-cancerous or cancerous, but because of the seriousness of a scrotal mass, it's important to have a doctor check out any swelling or lumps.
Diagnosis
Most men discover scrotal masses themselves, while doing a self-examination. Cancer of the testicle is noted by a lump or swelling within the testicle, that may be accompanied by a heavy feeling. Many testicular cancers aren't initially painful. So you should see your doctor if you detect any swelling or lumps in your testicles or groin area. The good news is that if it is detected early this type of cancer is treatable and curable.
Treatment for Scrotal Masses
Scrotal masses require minimally invasive treatment or no treatment at all, but some require more serious procedures. Depending upon the type of cyst treatments include antibiotics, radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery. Your age and overall health also are factors in choosing treatment options.
Prevention
The best way to prevent either type of testicular cancer is through regular self-examination and routine examinations by your doctor. A good time to examine your testicles is after a warm bath or shower. The heat from the water relaxes your scrotum, making it easier for you to detect anything unusual.
How to Perform a Self Exam
- Stand in front of a mirror. Look for any swelling on the skin of the scrotum.
- Examine each testicle with both hands. Place the index and middle fingers under the testicle while placing your thumbs on the top.
- Gently roll the testicle between the thumbs and the fingers. Remember that the testicles are usually smooth, oval shaped and somewhat firm. It's normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other is. The cord leading upward from the top of the testicle is a normal part of the scrotum.
By regularly performing a self exam, you'll become more familiar with your testicles and aware of any changes that might be of concern. If you find a lump, be sure to call your doctor as soon as possible.
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