Scrotal and testicle lumps
Feeling a lump within the scrotum can cause a huge amount of anxiety for men, as the first thought is often testicle cancer. Miss Sangster aims to examine you and organise an immediate ultrasound if necessary to put your mind at rest.
There are a number of common lumps within the scrotum such as:
- Hydrocele: Accumulation of fluid around the testicle, causing swelling of the scrotum.
- Varicocele: Enlargement of veins within the scrotum, often described as feeling like a bag of worms. This is a particularly important finding in regards to fertility patients.
- Epididymal Cyst : Cystic swelling containing fluid that develops within the epididymis. These are benign, incredibly common and tend to cause no trouble. They can be as small as 1mm or grow as large as a lemon causing pain and getting in the way of everyday living.
- Testicular Tumour: This is a growth within the testicle itself, which may present as a painless lump or swelling. They can also cause pain and a dull ache. Any lump within the body of the testicle needs urgent investigation to rule out a potential testicle cancer.
- Inguinal Hernia: Protrusion of abdominal contents into the inguinal canal or scrotum, often causing a bulge that may become more prominent with straining.
- Abscess: Collection of pus within the scrotum, usually due to infection.
- Lipoma: Benign fatty tumour that can occur within the scrotal sac.
These are some of the common causes of scrotal swellings, but there can be other less common causes as well. A thorough medical evaluation, including history, physical examination is important. Dr Sangster will organise an ultrasound by one of our specialist uro-radiologists before planning any intervention. The majority of scrotal swellings can be managed conservatively unless they are causing pain.