Overview
Scrotal masses refer to lumps or swelling in the scrotum, which is the bag of skin that holds the testicles. Scrotal masses can result from various causes such as a buildup of fluids, growth of irregular tissue, or swollen, inflamed, or hardened parts inside the scrotum. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional if you notice any scrotal mass, as some masses may be cancerous or related to other medical conditions affecting the testicles' health and function. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of scrotal masses can vary and can include an unusual lump, sudden pain, dull aching or a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, pain that spreads to other areas, a tender, swollen, or hardened testicle or epididymis, swelling in the scrotum, a change in color of the skin of the scrotum, and upset stomach or vomiting. If the cause is an infection, additional symptoms may include fever, needing to urinate often, and pus or blood in the urine. It is important to get any scrotal mass checked by a healthcare professional, even if there are no symptoms, as some masses could be cancer.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing scrotal masses include:
- Undescended testicle: A testicle that doesn't move down from the stomach area into the scrotum before birth or in the months afterward.
- Conditions present at birth: Irregular changes in the testicles, penis, or kidnees that may increase the risk of scrotal masses and testicular cancer later in life.
- Testicular cancer: Cancer that starts in the testicles can cause a painless lump or swelling in the scrotum. Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Inguinal hernia in infants: A hernia that occurs before birth when the passageway from the stomach area to the scrotum doesn't close properly.
- Testicular torsion: A painful condition caused by the twisting of the spermatic cord, which can lead to the loss of the affected testicle if not treated promptly. It's important to note that not all scrotal masses lead to long-term medical conditions, but any mass that affects the health or function of the testicle can result in delayed or poor development during puberty or infertility. If you notice a lump or any unusual changes in your scrotum, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.
Development
Scrotal masses can develop due to a buildup of fluids, the growth of irregular tissue, or swollen, inflamed, or hardened parts inside the scrotum. Some common causes include testicular cancer, conditions present at birth, a history of testicular cancer in the family, and undescended testicles. Scrotal masses can lead to complications such as delayed or poor development during puberty and infertility. It is important to get any scrotal mass checked by a healthcare professional, even if there are no pain or other symptoms present.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if a scrotal mass is suspected, even if it is not painful or tender. It's important to get a scrotal mass checked by a healthcare professional to determine the cause, as some masses could be cancer. Regular self-examination of the scrotum and seeking medical advice during regular health checkups can help identify masses early and improve the chances of successful treatment. In case of sudden pain in the scrotum, seek emergency medical care to prevent permanent damage to the testicle.
Diagnosis
To diagnose scrotal masses, you may need tests such as a physical exam, transillumination, ultrasound, and urine tests. A physical exam involves a doctor or healthcare professional feeling your scrotum and nearby areas, while transillumination involves shining a bright light through the scrotum. An ultrasound creates an image of the inside of the body to provide detailed information about the size, location, and composition of the scrotal mass, and a urine test can detect infections or the presence of blood or pus in the urine. In some cases, additional tests like a blood test, CT scan, or biopsy might be necessary for a definitive diagnosis.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Complications of scrotal masses depend on the underlying cause. Some potential complications include:
- Delayed or poor development during puberty: If a scrotal mass affects the health or function of the testicle, it may lead to delayed or poor development during puberty.
- Infertility: A scrotal mass or testicular cancer may result in infertility if the affected testicle is not removed or treated properly. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you or your child notice any lumps or changes in the scrotum, even if there are no symptoms or pain. Early detection and treatment can help manage potential complications more effectively.
Home Remedies
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment of scrotal masses.
Treatment
The treatment of scrotal masses mainly depends on their cause. If the scrotal mass is caused by infection, antibiotics can be prescribed to treat the infection. In cases of epididymitis or orchitis caused by a virus, treatment typically involves rest, ice, and pain relief medication. For testicular cancer, the main treatment is radical inguinal orchiectomy, which involves removing the affected testicle and the spermatic cord through a cut in the groin. Lymph nodes in the abdominal area may also be removed if the cancer has spread to them. Other treatment options may be recommended based on the cancer's stage and whether it has spread to other body parts. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to the individual case.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for scrotal masses, you should gather information and prepare a list of questions to ask your care team. Key information to share includes your symptoms, personal and family medical history, and any medications you are taking. Some questions to ask your doctor may include the tests you will need, the possible causes of the scrotal mass, the potential treatment options, and any brochures or websites for further information. Be prepared to provide details about your symptoms, any pain or discomfort you are experiencing, and any recent injuries or illnesses related to the scrotal area. Additionally, perform regular self-examinations of your testicles to help detect any unusual lumps or masses early on. Remember to be open and honest with your care team, and don't hesitate to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have.