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Testicle lump



Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy


Testicle lump

Alternative Names:

Lump in the testicle
Call your health care provider if:

Call your health care provider right away if you notice any unexplained lumps or any other changes in your testicles.


What to expect at your health care provider's office:


Your health care provider will perform a physical examination, which may include inspecting and palpating the testicles and scrotum, and ask questions about the lump, such as:

  • When did you notice the lump?
  • Have you had any previous lumps?
  • Is there any pain?
  • Does the lump change in size?
  • Is only one testicle involved?
  • Exactly where on the testicle is the lump?
  • Have you had any recent injuries or infections?
  • What other symptoms do you have?
  • Is there scrotal swelling?
  • Do you have abdominal pain?
  • Do you have any lumps or swelling elsewhere?
  • Have you ever had surgery on your testicles or in the area?
  • Were you born with both testicles in the scrotum?

Diagnostic tests depend on the results of the physical examination.

TREATMENT

  • For a lump caused by orchitis or epididymitis, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
  • For a lump caused by mumps, consult your doctor for medication while the disease runs its course.
  • For a lump caused by testicular torsion, see your health care provider immediately! This emergency condition is very painful and requires prompt surgical correction.
  • For a lump caused by cancer, radiation, and chemotherapy are treatment options.
  • For a lump caused by a herniated loop of bowel, surgery may be recommended.
  • For a lump caused by spermatocele, hydrocele, or varicocele, consult your health care provider about medication and surgical options.

Prevention:

Starting in puberty, men at risk for testicular cancer should examine their testicles on a regular basis. This includes men with a family history of testicular cancer, men who have had a previous testicular tumor, or men with an undescended testicle. These men should perform a testicular self exam each month, so that a testicular mass can be detected early. A lump on the testicle may be the first sign of testicular cancer.




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