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

• hydrocele
• tumor
• epididymal cyst

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