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Urology  (Expert Forum)
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Testicular/abdominal pain
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Testicular/abdominal pain

by Ros__0__0, Aug 10, 1999 12:00AM

Posted by Ross on August 10, 1999 at 09:10:28
I am a 30 yr old white male, About 8 years ago I noticed a small (bb or smaller) sized bump on my left testicle, it was generally painless so I didnt see a doctor. 4 years later it began to be sensitive so I saw a GP and then a Urologist. The urologist did a manual exam and told me it was a cyst (ganglian I beleive) now 4 years later I have mild pain/discomfort in my groin and lower abdomen, this occurs esp when sitting. The lump is still there and still the same size, it is sore if pressure is applied but the testicle itself is not sore otherwise. I saw my family doctor yesterday and after a very thurough manual exam he discovered I also have a spermocele above that testicl and this is also sore to the touch. THe lump is located on the top of the testicle twards the rear. Should I be seen by a urologist again? My family doc says he saw no evidence of anything cancerous and said I had probrably pulled my groin.

Thanks
Ross

Posted by Tom on August 11, 1999 at 23:42:37
Ross and the docs,
I, too, have a similar condition. I had a swelling above my testicle that was not painful, but uncomfortable. I saw a urologist first, who diagnosed it as a spermatocele. That was about three months ago. Since that time, my epididymis has become even more swollen and I am experiencing a dull ache in my groin and epididymis areas, but I'm just living with it. I've been seen by a nurse practitioner and my general doc and they both diagnosed me with spermatocele/swollen epididymis as well.
Good luck. I look forward to the responses.

Posted by Kenner on August 22, 1999 at 11:20:21
I have had increasing testicular pain for three months, primarily in my left testical. I cannot feel lumps or locate the exact spot of the pain since it seems to be generalized. The pain radiates to my abdomin (abdomen), buttocks and thighs. The pain can be best described as soreness and a dull ache. There is some pain in the testical during urination (not burning in the penis) and some relief with a bowel movement. I have an appointment with my primary care physician, but it is several weeks away. Any insights or suggestions?
Thanks for your help.

Posted by HFHS M.D.-AK on August 23, 1999 at 10:46:52
Dear Ross,
It is difficult to comment on this mass because I don’t have the opportunity to examine you.  There are several structures and potential abnormalities that can account for the description you gave.  These are namely  a spermatocele, hydrorocele, varicocele, or hernia.  All of these can be better characterized on physical exam.  If there is any question, an ultrasound can be obtained to determine if the mass is intratesticular or extratesticular.  There is a big difference if the mass is coming or growing inside the testicle or from the surrounding structures.  Most likely you do have a spermatocele as your family doctor stated, which I will discuss in detail.
A spermatocele is a cystic structure or outpouching of the epididymus.  The cyst itself is usually firm and nontender.  It is usually filled with sperm and epididymal fluid and considered a benign lesion.  It is possible for it to lead to a decrease in fertility however this is uncommon.  The most important  part of diagnosis is to make sure there is no cancerous lesion.  Again this can be done by a good physical exam or ultrasound.
I can’t tell you how to live your life and I certainly can’t tell you if this is a cancerous lesion over the internet.  Without examining you, I don’t want to comment on whether you should go to the urologist.  However, if your doctor got an ultrasound and that is read as a spermatocele and there is a comment stating that there is no intratesticular mass, I don’t think your chances of having testicular cancer are low.
This information is provided for general medical educational 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 satellites (1 800 653-6568).
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-AK
*keyword:Scrotal Mass


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