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Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy

Testicle lump
Definition:
A testicle lump involves swelling or a lump in the testicle(s).

Alternative Names:
Lump in the testicle

Considerations:

To minimize the risks of testicular cancer, men should ask their health care providers to show them how to examine their testes, just as most women examine their breasts to reduce breast cancer risk.

Very few men know how to look for lumps in their testes, and men who do know how to do it often do not do it regularly. Men should examine themselves monthly to monitor for changes in their testicles.

A testicular lump that doesn't hurt may be a sign of cancer, especially in men aged 20 to 35.
Common Causes:

Possible causes if testicle is painful: Possible causes if testicle is not painful:
Home Care:
Follow your health care provider's recommendations.

Learn how to perform testicular self-examination, and perform this procedure regularly (once a month is recommended).
Call your health care provider if:

Call your health care provider right away if you notice any unexplained testicular lumps.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
Your health care provider will obtain your medical history and will perform a physical examination.

Medical history questions documenting the testicular lump may include the following:
  • Time pattern
    • When did you notice the lump?
    • Have you had any previous lumps?
  • Quality
    • How large is the lump?
    • Is there any pain?
    • Is the lump smooth?
    • Does the lump change in size?
  • Location
    • Is only one testicle involved?
    • Exactly where on the testicle is the lump?
  • Have there been any recent injuries or infections?
  • What other symptoms are also present?
  • Is there scrotal swelling?
  • Are there lumps in the groin?
  • Is there abdominal pain?
  • Are there lumps or swelling elsewhere?
  • Have you ever had surgery on your testicles or in the area?
  • Were you born with both testicles in the scrotum?
Physical examination may include inspection and palpation of the testicles and scrotum. Diagnostic tests depend on the results of the physical examination.

Treatment for a lump in the testicle caused by orchitis or epididymitis, your health care provider may prescribe antibiotic treatment.

For a lump in the testicle caused by mumps, consult your health care provider for medical management while the disease runs its course.

For a lump in the testicle caused by testicular torsion, see your health care provider immediately! This emergency condition is very painful and requires prompt surgical correction.

Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are treatment options for a lump in the testicle caused by cancer.

For a lump in the testicle caused by a herniated loop of bowel, surgery may be recommended. For a lump in the testicle caused by spermatocele, hydrocele, and/or varicocele, consult your health care provider about medical management and surgical options.
Review Date: 10/28/2002
Reviewed By: David R. Knowles M.D., Department of Urology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital Columbia Campus, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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