Epididymal Cyst vs Cancer

I went to my GP today to have a "lump" in my right testicle checked out.  I found it during routine TSE in the shower.  To me it feels like a firm "nodule" on the right side of the right testicle near the top and rear (about the size of a BB).  It is not really a "raised" bump and I have to firmly palpate the testicle to locate it (as though it is more beneath the surface or interior).  As I have been doing routine TSEs for some time, when I felt it I was concerned.  The doctor had great difficulty finding it, as I expected.  When my scrotum is "tight" , which it was (although not too) it is very hard to discern the lump.  He finally said he felt what I felt and said he thought is was an "epididymal cyst".  I did some internet research and discovered that this is essentially a spermatocele but with a fluid other than sperm.  I have a spermatocele on the same testicle at the bottom.  The two DO NOT feel the same.  The lump for firm.   And, what I feel feels like it is ON the testicle..not on the  epididymis.  Sometimes, I even have trouble finding it again unless I am in a hot shower.  He sent me off and I am to go back for a full up physical in January and which time he will recheck.

While I trust my doctor, I left the office concerned.  I don't have a question, per se, just looking for some assurance that waiting 6 weeks for another check is OK.  No matter what it is...would there be any significant growth (or shrinkage) in that time period?

Thanks.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The most reasonable initial test to evaluate this would be a scrotal ultrasound.  This can be easily ordered by your primary care physician.  The ultrasound should be able to differentiate between a cyst, spermatocele or cancer.  

That being said, waiting 6 weeks to recheck is also reasonable - but the ultrasound would give a more definitive answer.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[jordanhuff130]

A related discussion, i have cancer? was started.