Testicular Lumps: Cancer, Inflammation, or Tumors?

Q: Testicular Lumps: Cancer, Inflammation, or Tumors?

Hello： For your reference, during inflammation, the testicles can become increasingly swollen, similar to testicular cancer. <br>Both conditions can cause enlargement, and there may be some benign causes. <br>A physician's examination is necessary. <br>Wishing you good health.

There is a small, bean-sized lump inside the right testicle, not on the skin?

I have a small, raised bump on my right testicle that resembles a pimple, about the size of a bean.
It has been there for a long time, and currently, there is no heaviness or pain (although there is a slight dull pain when I apply pressure).
It neither grows larger nor disappears.
The entire testicle feels firm and elastic.
Could this be testicular cancer, inflammation, or a tumor? If it is testicular cancer, does the testicle always enlarge?

Jo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/20

Dr. Li Minghui reply Urology

Hello: For your reference, during inflammation, the testicles can become increasingly swollen, similar to testicular cancer.
Both conditions can cause enlargement, and there may be some benign causes.
A physician's examination is necessary.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/20

More Info

When it comes to testicular lumps, it is essential to approach the situation with caution and a thorough understanding of the potential causes. The lump you describe on your right testicle, which feels like a small, firm bump (similar to a pea) and has been present for a long time without significant changes, could be due to several conditions, including testicular cancer, inflammation, or benign tumors.

1. Testicular Cancer: Testicular cancer often presents as a lump or swelling in the testicle. It can be painless, but some patients report discomfort or a feeling of heaviness. While many testicular cancers do cause the affected testicle to enlarge, this is not always the case. Some forms of testicular cancer can present as a small lump without significant enlargement of the testicle. The fact that your lump has not changed in size and is not associated with severe pain is somewhat reassuring, but it does not rule out cancer.

2. Epididymal Cysts or Spermatocele: These are benign conditions that can present as lumps on the testicle. An epididymal cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms in the epididymis, the coiled tube at the back of the testicle. These cysts are usually painless and can vary in size. A spermatocele is similar but specifically contains sperm. Both conditions are generally harmless and do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort.

3. Orchitis or Epididymitis: Inflammation of the testicle (orchitis) or the epididymis (epididymitis) can also present as a lump. These conditions are often accompanied by pain, swelling, and sometimes fever. Since you mentioned that the lump is not associated with significant pain or swelling, this is less likely, but it cannot be completely ruled out without further evaluation.

4. Benign Tumors: There are also benign tumors of the testicle, such as Leydig cell tumors or Sertoli cell tumors. These are less common and can present as lumps but are generally not associated with the symptoms of cancer.

Given your description, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. A physical examination is essential, and your doctor may recommend an ultrasound of the testicle to assess the characteristics of the lump. An ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that can help differentiate between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts. If there is any suspicion of malignancy, further tests, including blood tests for tumor markers (such as alpha-fetoprotein and human chorionic gonadotropin), may be warranted.

In summary, while the lump you describe could be benign, it is essential to seek medical advice to rule out testicular cancer or other conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best outcomes, especially if cancer is involved. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in your body, particularly in sensitive areas like the testicles.

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