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Urology (Expert Forum)
spermatocele or cyst on spermatic cord (vas diferens)
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.
spermatocele or cyst on spermatic cord (vas diferens)
by Phil-Flint, Apr 15, 1999 12:00AM
Posted by Phil Flint on April 15, 1999 at 10:38:59
Two years ago I was run over by a car and suffered various injuries, the most significant being a massive liver laceration - I was, of course, in the hostpital for over a month, and spent another 2 weeks or so gaining strength enough to walk and what not in a rehabilitative pavillion. I am, as far as I can tell, fully recovered. I mention this only in case it would complicate things.
About 4 months ago, I noticed a small, pea-sized knot on the upper portion of my left spermatic cord close to the groin. It is hard, though not painful. I do experience some frequency in urination & urgency. I was told by our family doctor that it was most likely a spermatocele and not to worry. What is disconcerting is that there is now a slightly smaller knot directly below it, also on the spermatic cord. Could this be testicular cancer or a urinary tract infection of some sort?
Posted by HFHS M.D.-AK on April 16, 1999 at 14:48:16
Dear Phil,
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 outside the testis or growing inside the testicle or from the surrounding structures. Most likely you have a spermatocele 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 if you have cancer over the internet, but your doctor did examine you and told you you had a spermatocele. If you are still concered, go to your doctor and ask to have an ultrasound of the scrotum. This will give you another opinion.
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
Member Comments
by bird94, Apr 14, 2009 11:38PM
A related discussion, spermatocele or cyst was started.
