What is spermatocele
The epididymis is a small structure adjacent to the testicle from the back, in which sperm mature and accumulate. It consists of many thin ducts. If one of them expands or overlaps, a closed cavity is formed, filled with fluid mixed with sperm - this is a spermatocele.
Such a cyst is located next to the testicle, and not inside it. When palpated, it is defined as a smooth, mobile, usually painless formation, separate from the testicle itself - this sign is key to distinguishing it from a tumor.
Symptoms
- Most often, there are no complaints - the cyst is discovered by chance
- A palpable round mass above or behind the testicle
- Feeling of heaviness or discomfort in the scrotum if it is large
- Nagging pain with a significant volume of the cyst
- Increase in scrotal volume
- Discomfort during physical activity or prolonged sitting
Reasons
- Violation of outflow through the ducts of the appendage is the main mechanism
- Past inflammatory diseases: epididymitis, orchitis
- Scrotal injuries
- Consequences of scrotal surgery, including vasectomy
- Age-related changes—the frequency of findings increases with age
- In most cases, a specific cause cannot be determined
Diagnostics
- Inspection and palpation of the scrotum to determine the location of the formation relative to the testicle
- Diaphanoscopy - the cyst with fluid is visible through
- Ultrasound of the scrotum with Dopplerography is the main and decisive method: accurately determines the location, size, structure of the formation and condition of the testicle
- Tumor markers for suspicious changes in testicular tissue
- Spermogram when planning pregnancy and multiple cysts
Ultrasound reliably distinguishes spermatocele from hydrocele, varicocele, hernia, inflammation of the epididymis and testicular tumor. That is why it is prescribed for any formation in the scrotum, even if the doctor is confident in the diagnosis after examination.
Is treatment necessary?
A small asymptomatic cyst does not require treatment. Periodic self-examination and control ultrasound as recommended by a doctor are sufficient.
- Observation is the main tactic in the absence of complaints
- Surgical removal of the cyst - for significant size, pain, discomfort, rapid growth or cosmetic reasons
- Puncture with aspiration and sclerotherapy - limited use due to the high frequency of relapses and the risk of damage to the appendage
- Painkillers for temporary discomfort
- Wearing support garments for large cysts
What is important to know
- Spermatocele is not a precancerous condition and does not develop into a tumor
- The cyst does not affect potency and testosterone levels
- As a rule, it does not affect fertility, unless it is multiple and very large.
- Cysts may slowly enlarge over time - this is not a sign of malignancy
- It is possible for new cysts to form after removal of an existing one
- Regular self-examination remains useful to help you notice any new changes.
Where to get examined in Tashkent
If any formation is detected in the scrotum, a consultation with a urologist and an ultrasound of the scrotum are needed - this is a quick study that immediately resolves the main questions.
In Tashkent, examination and, if indicated, surgical treatment of epididymal cysts is carried out at the UROLOGIC COMPLEX medical center and at the Tashkent Medical Park clinic.
If you feel a formation in the scrotum, do not try to determine its nature yourself: a benign cyst and a testicular tumor require completely different tactics, and only ultrasound can reliably distinguish them. Clinic contacts are below.
