A spermatocele is a benign, fluid-filled sac that forms in the epididymis, a coiled tube located behind the testicle. This cyst contains a milky or clear fluid and may include sperm cells. It is generally harmless and does not affect fertility or sexual function.
What is a Spermatocele?
A spermatocele is a non-cancerous, fluid-filled cyst that develops within the epididymis, a small, coiled tube situated on the upper-back aspect of each testicle. This structure plays a role in storing and transporting sperm from the testicle. The cyst typically contains a clear or cloudy fluid, often mixed with sperm cells, and varies in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
The formation of a spermatocele is believed to result from a blockage in one of the small tubes within the epididymis that transport sperm. This blockage can cause sperm and fluid to accumulate, leading to the formation of the cyst. The exact cause of such blockages is not always clear, but they are generally not associated with injury or infection.
Many individuals with a spermatocele experience no symptoms at all, discovering the mass incidentally during a self-examination or a routine physical. When symptoms do occur, they are typically mild and might include a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, a dull ache, or discomfort due to the size of the mass. The lump itself is usually smooth, distinct, and painless to the touch, located above and behind the testicle.
Do Spermatoceles Go Away On Their Own?
Spermatoceles, being true cysts, generally do not resolve or disappear on their own once they have formed. Unlike temporary swellings or inflammations, these are structural formations resulting from a blockage within the epididymis. Therefore, while their size might fluctuate slightly, the underlying cyst typically persists over time.
Because spermatoceles are not temporary conditions, observation is a common approach if they are asymptomatic. This means that if the spermatocele does not cause discomfort, pain, or significant cosmetic concerns, medical professionals often recommend simply monitoring it. This approach avoids unnecessary intervention for a benign condition.
Even if a spermatocele remains, it rarely poses a health risk or leads to complications. The primary reasons for considering intervention are related to the symptoms it might cause, such as persistent discomfort or a noticeable increase in size. Without such issues, the presence of a spermatocele does not necessitate active treatment.
When to See a Doctor
Consulting a doctor is advisable if a new scrotal lump is discovered, as it is important to rule out other, potentially more serious conditions. While spermatoceles are benign, any new mass in this area warrants professional evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Medical attention should also be sought if an existing spermatocele grows significantly in size, becomes painful, or causes increasing discomfort that interferes with daily activities. These changes could indicate the need for intervention or a re-evaluation of the diagnosis.
During a medical consultation, a doctor typically performs a physical examination to assess the lump’s characteristics and location. They might also recommend an ultrasound scan of the scrotum. This imaging technique helps confirm the diagnosis of a spermatocele by visualizing its fluid-filled nature and distinguishing it from solid masses or other scrotal conditions.
Treatment Approaches
For many individuals, no active treatment is necessary, especially if the spermatocele is small and asymptomatic. A “watchful waiting” approach is often recommended, involving regular self-examination and periodic check-ups to monitor its size and characteristics.
When a spermatocele causes persistent pain, significant discomfort, or reaches a size that is bothersome, surgical removal, known as a spermatocelectomy, may be considered. This procedure involves making a small incision in the scrotum to carefully dissect and remove the cyst from the epididymis. It is generally performed as an outpatient procedure using either local or general anesthesia.
Spermatocelectomy is considered a relatively straightforward surgical procedure with a high success rate in relieving symptoms. Patients typically experience some scrotal swelling and discomfort for a few days to a week post-surgery, managed with pain medication and scrotal support. While rare, potential risks include infection, bleeding, recurrence of the spermatocele, or damage to the epididymis, which could affect fertility.