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Urology  (Expert Forum)
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Lump on Testicle
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Lump on Testicle

by flashdc, Jun 27, 2007 12:00AM
Over a week ago I had some slight tenderness coming from my left testicle.  When I checked it I noticed a firm round mass directly on top of the testicle.  It is perfectly round, smooth, and about the size of a marble.  It feels like it is attached to the epididymis and separate from the testicle, and is mobile.  My GP felt it and said it is probably an epididymal cyst, but has sent me for an ultrasound to confirm.  I have been reading about it on the internet which is a bad habit of mine, and I read somewhere that if you shine a light behind the mass (transillumination) and the light shines through it is most likely a cyst.  I tried this with a small flashlight and the mass seemed to be somewhat dark with some light shining through at times, but not clearly.  Is this a reliable test?  Could I be doing it wrong?  I am worried now that I have a solid tumor attached to my epididymis.  My ultrasound is not for 2 weeks.  Please help.

by Forum-M.D.-, Jun 28, 2007 12:00AM
Lumps can be caused by cysts, cancer, hydroceles or varicoceles.  

If an epididymal cyst is suspected, this can be managed conservatively in most cases.  

I agree with the ultrasound.  It will be much more reliable than the physical exam and trans-illumination of the scrotum.  Cancer can be ruled out with this imaging study.

This question can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
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