Scrotal masses
Definition
A scrotal mass is a lump or bulge that can be felt in the scrotum, the sac that contains the testicles.
See also:
Alternative Names
Hematocele; SpermatoceleCauses
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.
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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