A testicular mass can be benign or malignant and can be caused by various factors such as fluid buildup, varicocele, hematocele, epididymitis, and inguinal hernia. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and tenderness. A complete medical exam and imaging tests are necessary to determine the nature of the mass and appropriate treatment. Monthly self-exams are recommended.
An abnormal growth in one testicle is known as a testicular mass. A testicle is a reproductive gland in males and most have two of these glands contained in the scrotum or scrotal sac. Sometimes, a man will be able to feel the mass or it might be discovered during a routine visit. Testicular masses can be benign or malignant. For this reason, every lump should be diligently examined by a doctor to find out its nature.
A testicular lump or mass can be caused by fluid buildup. Sometimes, the fluid is mostly composed of dead sperm. This type of mass is called a spermatocele. Often, too much clear fluid collects and forms a cyst around the testicle, and this type of growth is known as a hydrocele. Generally, both a spermatocele and a hydrocele are considered benign or non-cancerous growths.
A mass can also be caused by a varicocele. This type of mass forms due to an enlargement of the vein in the scrotum. Another type of testicular mass can develop due to a pooling of blood in the areas surrounding the testicle. These masses, known as hematoceles, are commonly seen after an injury to the area.
Other common causes of a testicular mass include epididymitis and inguinal hernia. Epididymitis occurs when the epididymis becomes inflamed, often from an infection. This is the structure that carries sperm. Additionally, an inguinal hernia can also cause abnormal growth. This type of hernia is actually made up of small intestines that become overgrown with weak areas in the groin and form a mass in a testicle or scrotum.
One of the most serious causes of a testicular mass is a malignant tumor. Although any man can get testicular cancer, it is generally more common in younger men. A testicular tumor may be biopsied to confirm that it is malignant. As soon as the cancer is discovered, a treatment plan will be put into place. This may include surgery to remove the testicle and, if needed, chemotherapy or radiation.
The symptoms of a testicular mass may be the same whether the mass is a malignant or benign tumor. For some men, the mass can be noticeably visible. There may also be pain and a heavy feeling in the scrotum. Sometimes, there can be a significant amount of swelling and tenderness as well. In some cases, an individual may have a testicular mass and not show any symptoms.
A complete medical exam will be done on a man with a testicular mass. Most doctors will order an imaging test, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, for a view of the inside of the testicle. A fluid-filled mass may require no treatment or a simple drainage procedure. Larger masses that are particularly problematic may need to be surgically removed. Ideally, a man should have monthly testicular self exams to increase the chance of detecting an abnormal growth as early as possible.
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