Can a testes split inside?

Posted by Shelly on July 18, 1999 at 11:53:46
My husbands testicle on one side feels like it has separated inside.  He says that it is tender alot.  Ive felt of it and it feels like there is a separation in it.  The other one is full and firm, normal I guess.  Can it separate or could this be a separate tumor?  The size of it even separated is about the same size of the other one if you put the two sep. pieces together.  I hope this makes sense.  His doctor said, "We will watch it for a while" and that was it.  It has been this way for at least 6 years. What do you think? What kind of doctor should he see.  He's been seeing his regular MD. He is 40 and there have been no test. cancer but there has been prostate cancer.
Thanks for any response.

Posted by HFHS M.D.-BE on July 22, 1999 at 12:01:36
=========================================================================
Dear Shelly,
Anytime a man finds a testicular abnormality he should be seen and evaluated by a physician.  Given that your husband has had this condition for over six years, it is unlikely the process ia testicular cancer.  This condition is most common in men between ages of 20 and 40.  If detected early on it is quite curable with a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, depending on the type of cancer it is.  The other possibilities would include, epididymal cysts or spermatocoeles.  These are a collection of benign cysts(small , fluid filled bags).  They could cause symptoms of pain and discomfort  It can be surgically corrected if the pain and tenderness become a major problem.  Without the benefit a physical examination, it is hard to make any specific remarks otherwise.
The best kind of doctor to see your husband is a urologist, who will probably start with a physical exam.  He may also order an ultrasound of the testicles to further assess the findings.  He will then make a decision about what to do.  It is important for you to make this appointment.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling  (1 800 653 6568).
Sincerely;
HFHS-M.D. BE
* Keyword:testicular abnormality