What is a Spermatocele?
A spermatocele is an abnormal fluid-filled sac or cyst that arises in the epididymis, a coiled tube located above each testicle that stores sperm. The fluid in the sac is clear or white and may contain sperm. Spermatoceles are usually non-cancerous, painless and do not affect fertility. They usually produce no symptoms unless they grow to cause discomfort, a feeling of heaviness, a palpable mass or pain. They usually present in men in the age group of 20 to 50, due to blockage of the epididymis as a result of trauma or inflammation.
Diagnosis of Spermatocele
To diagnose a spermatocele, your doctor will examine and palpate your testicles. A transillumination examination may be performed where light is passed through the testicles to indicate if the mass is solid or contains fluid. An ultrasound test, which uses sound waves to create images of the testicles, may also be performed.
Treatment for Spermatocele
Most spermatoceles are noticed incidentally and don’t require any treatment. If your spermatocele is painful, large, or unusual your doctor may recommend a simple surgery to remove it, called a spermatocelectomy. This procedure is performed as a same-day surgery and is usually curative.