Spermatocele
Background
- Spermatoceles are fairly common, appearing in about 30% of adult men. They are usually found during self examination or while men are undergoing imaging studies for other conditions.
- arise from an accumulation of sperm, usually in the head of the epididymis.
- cause is not known
Clinical Features
- small, pea-sized bulge or lump in the scrotum.
- Sometimes this lump may be tender or painful and on occasions the scrotum is enlarged.
Differential Diagnosis
Testicular Diagnoses
- Scrotal cellulitis
- Epididymitis
- Fournier gangrene
- Hematocele
- Hydrocele
- Indirect inguinal hernia
- Inguinal lymph node (Lymphadenitis)
- Orchitis
- Scrotal abscess
- Spermatocele
- Tinea cruris
- Testicular rupture
- Testicular torsion
- Testicular trauma
- Testicular tumor
- Torsion of testicular appendage
- Varicocele
- Pyocele
- Testicular malignancy
- Scrotal wall hematoma
Diagnosis
- ultrasound - nearly 100% accurate in diagnosis of spermatocele
Management
- Usually does not require treatment
- Surgical management my urology can be discussed if spermatocele is causing pain or increases in size
Disposition
- discharge home with urology follow up if needed
References
- 1. Cleveland Clinic Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute. Hydrocele and Spermatocele. Retrieved from http://my.clevelandclinic.org/services/urology-kidney/diseases-conditions/hydrocele-spermatocele
- 2. Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Epididymal Cyst and Spermatocele. Retrieved from http://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/epididymal-cyst-and-spermatocele#.Vpe8cDbsehQ