$Unique_ID{BRK00976}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{Isn't a Swollen Testicle Something to Worry About?}
$Subject{hydrocele testicle cyst}
$Volume{J-22}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Isn't a Swollen Testicle Something to Worry About?


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QUESTION:  My husband had a lump in his testicle.  After prolonged nagging he
went to see the doctor.  The doctor held a light behind the testicle and said
he could see light through it so it was only a cyst and nothing to worry
about.  A couple of years later without any reason which we can figure that
testicle has swollen to three times its size and has remained swollen.  The
doctor has said by phone that if it doesn't hurt, don't worry about it.  These
diagnoses sound pretty cavalier to me.  I would like him to go to a second
doctor.  What do you think?

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ANSWER:  I suppose we are operating here on the principle "If it isn't TOO
broken, don't fix it", but your desire for a better explanation is certainly
valid.  Let us first assume that the mass is in the scrotum or sac, rather
than a part of the testicle.  Such "cysts" are common and are known as
"hydroceles" and are filled with a clear, sterile fluid that results from
overproduction or reduced absorption of the fluid produced by tissues within
the scrotum.  This fluid production may become increased when an inflammation
exists, such as follows and infection or trauma.  Another type of cyst found
close to the testes is a spermatic cyst or "Spermatocele" which lies adjacent
to the epididymis, a structure that stores sperm.  The spermatocele also
contains sperm.  It likewise allows light to pass through, as the doctor did
during his examination, and telling this cyst apart from a hydrocele is often
quite difficult.  However, most doctors do agree that if these masses are not
too big, and do not cause pain and discomfort, they are best left alone.
Needle aspiration, that draws off the fluid into a syringe is, at best,
temporary and may result in an infection.  The only totally effective
treatment to remove these liquid filled cysts is surgical removal, and from
the sound of it, plain old fashion nagging isn't going to get you to convince
your husband to undergo an operation he really doesn't need.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
