Having a lump on your testicle can be a worrying experience, but the vast majority of lumps are not cancerous and can be easily treated. It’s important to recognize the signs of a potentially serious lump, and seek medical advice if you have one. With prompt treatment, most lumps can be treated successfully.
What Is a Lump on Testicle?
A lump on testicle (scrotal mass) is any unusual lump, bulge, or nodule that can be felt on the surface of the testicles. Scrotal masses might be:
- Fluid Build-ups
- Irregular tissue growth
- Swollen, or hardened parts inside the scrotum
Most lumps on the testicle skin are caused by infections, such as epididymitis, cysts, or other non-cancerous conditions. In rare cases, however, the lump can be caused by a cancerous tumour.
Signs and Symptoms of Lump on Testicle
The most common symptom of a lump on testicle is a painless lump that can be felt on the surface of the testicles. It may feel like a pea-sized lump on testicle, or it may be larger. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain or tenderness in the testicles
- A feeling of heaviness in the scrotum
- Swelling of the scrotum
- Pain in the lower abdomen
- Painful urination
- Discharge from the penis
When Should I See a Doctor for a Lump on Testicle (Scrotal Mass)?
If you have a lump on your testicle, it is important to seek medical advice. Depending on the cause, your doctor may recommend treatment or further evaluation. Your doctor can do a physical examination and order tests to determine the cause of the lump.
It is important to seek medical attention if you have a lump on your testicle that is:
- persistent and not going away
- growing in size
- Painful
- accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, or vomiting
What Causes a Lump on Testicle?
There are several possible causes of a lump on the testicle. These can include:
- Epididymal Cysts
Epididymal cysts are the most common cause of a lump on the testicle. These cysts are usually painless and occur when the epididymis, a tube located at the back of the testicle, becomes blocked or inflamed. The cyst may be filled with fluid or contain blood and can range in size from a pea-sized lump to a grape-sized lump. - Hydrocele
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid in the scrotum that can cause a lump on the testicle. This is usually a painless condition that is caused by a buildup of fluid in the scrotum. The hydrocele can range in size from a pea-sized lump to a grape-sized lump. - Varicocele
A varicocele is an enlarged vein in the scrotum that can cause a lump on the testicle. This condition is usually painless and can range in size from a pea-sized lump to a grape-sized lump. - Infection
An infection in the scrotum can cause a lump on the testicle. This type of infection can be caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI) such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia, or it can be caused by a bacterial infection such as an abscess or a boil. The lump can be painful and can range in size from a pea-sized lump to a grape-sized lump. - Tumours
Tumours can also cause a lump on the testicle. Tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Testicular cancer is the most common type of cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 35. The lump can range in size from a pea-sized lump to a grape-sized lump.
How to Recognize a Potentially Serious Lump
Most lumps on the testicle are harmless and don’t require treatment. However, it’s important to recognize the signs of a potentially serious lump, as this may require medical treatment. Here are some signs to look out for:
Painful Lump on Testicle – If the lump is painful, it could be a sign of an infection or tumour. Seek medical advice if you have a painful lump on your testicle.
Hard Lump on Testicle – If the lump is hard and immovable, it may be a sign of a tumour. Seek medical advice if you have a hard lump on your testicle.
Pea Sized Lump on Testicle – If the lump is small and pea-sized, it’s likely to be harmless. However, it’s important to get it checked out by a doctor, as it may be a sign of a tumour.
Lump on Bottom of Testicle – If the lump is located on the bottom of the testicle, it could be a sign of a tumour. Seek medical advice if you have a lump on the bottom of your testicle.
Lump on Testicle Skin – If the lump is located on the skin of the testicle, it may be a sign of infection. Seek medical advice if you have a lump on the skin of your testicle.
How Is a Lump on Testicle (Scrotal Mass) Treated?
For infections, such as epididymitis or orchitis, treatment may include antibiotics or antiviral medications. For injuries, treatment may include rest and pain medications. For tumours, treatment may include surgery or radiation therapy, depending on the type and severity.
Testicular Lumps and Tumours in Children
It is important to be aware of the possibility of scrotal masses in children.
If your child is exhibiting any symptoms related to this, or you have any concerns regarding their genital area, it is best to consult a paediatrician or another health care expert.
There is a chance of higher risk for scrotal masses in the long term if a testicle has not descended from the abdominal area into the scrotum before birth, a condition referred to as undescended testicle. It is wise to be aware of this risk.
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