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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: 9/22/2009
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007.

Fütterer JJ, Heijmink SWTPJ, Spermon JR. Imagine the Male Reproductive Tract: Current Trends and Future Directions. Radiologic Clinics of North America. Jan 2008; 46(1).

U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for Testicular Cancer: Recommendation Statement. Rockville, MD: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; February 2004.

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