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Scrotal masses - Overview

Alternative Names

Hematocele; Spermatocele

Definition of Scrotal masses:

A scrotal mass is a lump or bulge that can be felt in the scrotum, the sac that contains the testicles.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A scrotal mass can be benign (generally harmless) or malignant (cancerous). Benign scrotal masses include:

Varicocele -- a varicose vein along the spermatic cord
Hydrocele -- fluid collection in the scrotum
Hematocele -- blood collection within the scrotum
Spermatocele -- a cyst-like mass within the scrotum that contains fluid and dead sperm cells

Scrotal masses can be caused by inflammatory or infectious diseases (for example, epididymitis), physical injury to the scrotum, herniation (inguinal hernia), or tumors.

Hydrocele

Spermatocele

Male reproductive system

Scrotal mass

Reviewed last on: 7/23/2007
Marc Greenstein, DO, Urologist, North Jersey Center for Urologic Care, Denville, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

References

Wein AJ. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007.

Grainger RC, Allison D, Adam, Dixon AK. Diagnostic Radiology: A Textbook of Medical Imaging. 4th ed. Orlando, Fl: Churchill Livingstone; 2001.

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