Finding bumps on your scrotum can be concerning. While many are harmless, self-diagnosis is unreliable and can delay proper care. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for accurate identification and guidance, ensuring peace of mind.
Common Benign Bumps
Many scrotal bumps are not serious and typically do not require medical intervention.
Fordyce spots, for instance, are very common, appearing as small, painless, whitish-yellow, or flesh-colored bumps, usually 1 to 3 millimeters in diameter. These are enlarged sebaceous glands that are present without hair follicles, and they are completely normal and harmless. They are not contagious and often become more visible when the surrounding skin is stretched.
Sebaceous cysts, also known as epidermal cysts, are another common type of harmless lump found within the scrotal skin. These cysts form when a sebaceous gland becomes blocked, leading to a build-up of an oily or putty-like substance. They are usually painless, vary in size and number, and appear as whitish, yellowish, or skin-colored lumps. While generally benign, they can sometimes become infected, causing redness, swelling, and tenderness.
Epididymal cysts, sometimes referred to as spermatoceles, are fluid-filled sacs that develop in the epididymis, a coiled tube located behind the testicle that stores sperm. These cysts are typically painless and harmless, forming when fluid is unable to drain properly. They can vary in size and are common.
Ingrown hairs or folliculitis can appear as small, red, sometimes painful bumps on the scrotal skin, occurring when hair grows back into its follicle or when follicles become inflamed.
Bumps Requiring Medical Evaluation
Some scrotal bumps warrant medical evaluation as they may indicate infection, inflammation, or a more serious condition.
Genital warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and appear as small, skin-colored or cauliflower-like growths in the genital area. These can affect the scrotum and may cause itching or discomfort. Diagnosis and management are necessary, as some HPV strains are linked to certain cancers.
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that results in small, firm, round, pearly or flesh-colored bumps, typically 1-5 millimeters in diameter, often with a tiny central indentation. This condition can affect the genital area in adults and, while often self-limiting, requires professional diagnosis to discuss potential treatments.
Genital herpes, another viral infection, presents as painful blisters that can rupture to form ulcers on the genitals, including the scrotum. These sores recur periodically and require medical management to control outbreaks and prevent transmission.
A lump on the testicle itself, distinct from the scrotal skin, should be evaluated promptly to rule out testicular cancer. Testicular cancer often presents as a firm, painless lump or a change in the size or shape of the testicle. A lump on the testicle can be the first symptom of cancer. Early detection is important for successful treatment outcomes, as testicular cancer is highly treatable when found early.
Key Signs to Watch For
Certain characteristics and symptoms indicate the need for prompt medical attention:
- Any new lump or swelling in the scrotum, or changes in the size, shape, or texture of an existing bump (e.g., a previously soft lump becoming firm or hard).
- Pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the scrotum or testicle.
- Redness, warmth, or swelling of the scrotal skin, which could suggest an infection or inflammation.
- A bump accompanied by discharge from the penis, itching, or fever.
- A dull ache or feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, or pain spreading to the groin, abdomen, or lower back.
Why Professional Medical Advice is Essential
Consulting a healthcare professional for any scrotal bumps is important for an accurate diagnosis.
Self-diagnosis can be misleading, as many benign conditions can mimic more serious ones, and vice versa.
A doctor can perform a thorough physical examination and, if necessary, recommend further diagnostic tests such as an ultrasound, which evaluates scrotal masses and distinguishes between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses. Blood tests may also be conducted to check for infection markers or tumor markers.
Early diagnosis is important for better outcomes, particularly for conditions like testicular cancer, where timely intervention significantly improves the prognosis. Even for benign conditions, a professional diagnosis can alleviate anxiety and provide peace of mind. Treatment options vary widely depending on the underlying cause, ranging from observation for harmless bumps to medication for infections or surgical procedures for more complex issues. Receiving a precise diagnosis ensures appropriate and effective care for your specific situation.