Have you ever felt a lump or bump on your testicles while you were washing your body, or just sitting there? Many men are terrified when they feel something like this. "Oh my, is this cancer?" They think. But don't worry, not all lumps are dangerous cancer. Today we're talking about a very common, and usually harmless, condition called a spermatocele.
Simply put, what is Spermatocele?
A spermatocele is a small, fluid-filled cyst that develops around the epididymis, a coiled tube that runs above and behind each of your testicles. The main function of this tube is to store and transport sperm.
A 'spermatocele' can develop on or behind the testicle. It contains a clear or slightly milky fluid. Sometimes this fluid may contain sperm. Some people also call these 'spermatic cysts'.
How common is this condition?
This is a more common condition than you might think. Research has found that up to one in three adult men may experience this condition. So if you're experiencing this, remember that you're not alone.
What are the symptoms of a spermatocele?
Most of the time, small spermatoceles don't cause any symptoms. You may not even know you have one. But as the lump gets larger, some people may experience symptoms like:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Slight pain in the testicle | It is not a sharp pain, but rather a slight ache or soreness in or around the testicles (scrotum). |
| Swelling of the testicle | The scrotum may appear swollen. |
| Feeling heavy | You may feel a heaviness or pulling sensation in the scrotum. |
What does a spermatocele look like and feel like?
The size of a spermatocele can vary, so its appearance also varies.
- You may not see anything: Some spermatoceles are so small that they cannot be seen or felt. They can only be detected with a scan such as an ultrasound.
- A small, walnut-sized lump: Most spermatoceles look like a small, walnut-sized lump. This can be felt above or behind the testicle.
- A large lump: Sometimes these can get very large. When that happens, it can look like you have a third testicle.
When touched, a spermatocele usually feels like a smooth, slightly firm lump.
Why does this Spermatocele form?
Doctors still don't know exactly what causes this. But the main idea is that it occurs when sperm gets stuck somewhere in the epididymis. It is thought that a blockage in the tubes or some kind of inflammation may be responsible for this.
Most of the time, these occur without any injury, infection, or other obvious cause.
Most importantly: A spermatocele does not get bigger by ejaculating. Don't worry about it.
How does a doctor know if you have a spermatocele?
Most of the time, these are discovered by chance. Either when you do a testicular self-exam or when a doctor does a routine exam. If you suspect you have a lump, these tests can be done to find out exactly what it is.
| Test | What do you do with it? |
|---|---|
| Transillumination | The doctor shines a light through the lump with a small torch-like device. Because a spermatocele is filled with fluid, the light passes through it and the lump appears transparent. This is not the case with a solid tumor. |
| Ultrasound scan | This is a painless scan. It uses sound waves to see the fine details of the testicle and the lump. This helps to determine exactly whether the lump is filled with fluid or solid matter. |
| Lab tests | If you are having pain, your doctor may recommend something like a urinalysis to check for an infection. |
Does this require treatment?
Since most spermatoceles are small and don't cause any pain or discomfort, treatment is usually not needed. Your doctor may say to wait and see.
However, if you continue to have pain or discomfort, or if the lump is large and bothersome, it can be removed surgically. This surgery is called a spermatocelectomy. This surgery is performed by a urologist (a doctor who specializes in the urinary and reproductive systems). This is usually not a major operation and you can go home the same day (an outpatient procedure).
What are the things to be concerned about with spermatocele?
Could it be cancer?
Absolutely not. Spermatoceles are not cancer. They are benign or harmless growths. There is no evidence that they can become cancerous or that having them increases the risk of testicular cancer.
Can this cause infertility?
Spermatocele itself does not cause infertility. However, the surgery to remove it can sometimes cause blockages in the epididymis. This may affect fertility. If you have plans to have children, discuss this openly with your doctor before deciding on treatment options.
When do you need to see a doctor?
If you notice any changes in your testicles, it's best to see a doctor right away. Especially if you have any of the following:
- If a lump is found above or behind the testicle.
- If there is swelling in the scrotum.
- If you feel a heaviness in the scrotum.
- If there is pain .
When do you need to go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU)?
If you suddenly develop severe pain and swelling in your testicles for no apparent reason, don't waste time and go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
Take-Home Message
- A spermatocele is a common, fluid-filled, non-cancerous lump that forms around the testicles.
- Most of the time, these don't cause any pain or discomfort, so no treatment is needed.
- If you feel a lump, swelling, or pain in your testicles, don't panic and keep it to yourself. See a doctor and get it checked out. That will ease your fears.
- Sudden, severe testicular pain is an emergency that requires immediate treatment. Go straight to the ETU.
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