Saturday, February, 11, 2012

Testicle lump

Table of Contents

Definition

A testicle lump is swelling or a growth (mass) in one or both testicles.

See also:

  • Testicular cancer
  • Testicular pain
  • Testicular self-exam

Alternative Names

Lump in the testicle


Considerations

A testicle lump that does not hurt may be a sign of cancer. Most cases of testicular cancer occur in men ages 15 - 40, although it can also occur at older or younger ages.


Common Causes

Possible causes of a painful testicle include:

  • A cyst-like lump in the scrotum that contains fluid and dead sperm cells (spermatocele)
  • Epididymitis
  • Infection of the scrotal sac
  • Injury or trauma
  • Mumps
  • Orchitis (testicular infection)
  • Testicular torsion
  • Testicular cancer
  • Varicocele

Possible causes if the testicle is not painful:

  • Hydrocele
  • Loop of bowel from a hernia
  • Spermatocele
  • Testicular cancer
  • Varicocele


Review Date: 09/03/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washingto School of Medicine; and Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)