What is a Spermatocele?

Spermatoceles, also known as spermatic cysts, are fluid-filled masses that are often painless. They grow near the testicles on the epididymis (the tube that stores sperm). These cysts tend to be benign (not cancerous) and are found near the top and behind the testicle, separate from the testicle. They are typically smooth, filled with a whitish, cloudy fluid, and most often contain sperm. Their size can vary.

Spermatoceles are most often not cancerous and do not increase the risk of testicular cancer, but they may be a nuisance.

What are the Symptoms?

• Usually no symptoms
• Feeling a lump or heaviness during a self-exam in the scrotum
• No pain

How is it Diagnosed?

• Usually found during a testicular self-exam or by a doctor during a health exam
• Self-exams should be done at least once a month
• Light can be shined through a spermatocele
• Ultrasound

How is it Treated?

Spermatoceles without pain are generally observed. However, if the spermatocele becomes bothersome or causes pain, the following treatments may be considered:

• Oral pain or anti-swelling medications to ease pain caused by spermatoceles
• Aspiration and sclerotherapy, though these are not commonly used
• Spermatocelectomy, which is the standard treatment for symptomatic spermatoceles