Concerns About Enlarged Testicular Lump: What You Need to Know

There is a hard lump (nodule) in the testicle?

Hello Dr.
Hsu, my question is about a hard lump on the surface of my testicle.
I have had similar lumps in the past, but they usually resolved on their own.
This time, however, the lump has grown larger, about the size of a peanut, and I am very concerned.
Thank you for your guidance.
Wishing you peace and well-being.

A-Kang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/12/20

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery

Dear Akang,
This is Dr.
Hsu Kai-Hsi, Chief of Surgery at Tainan Hospital, Department of Health and Welfare.
Based on your description, these hard lumps are located on the surface of the testicles and are likely to resolve on their own.
The most probable diagnoses are epidermoid cysts or folliculitis.
If the size is comparable to that of a peanut, local anesthesia for surgical removal may be considered.
Wishing you good health and all the best!
Sincerely,
Dr.
Hsu Kai-Hsi
Tainan Hospital, Department of Health and Welfare

Reply Date: 2008/12/20

More Info

Dear patient,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the enlarged testicular lump. It’s understandable to feel concerned when you notice changes in your body, especially in sensitive areas such as the testicles. Let’s discuss what this could mean and what steps you should consider taking.

Firstly, it’s important to recognize that lumps in the testicular area can arise from various causes. Some common benign conditions include epididymal cysts, which are fluid-filled sacs that can develop on the epididymis (the tube that carries sperm from the testicles), and varicoceles, which are enlarged veins within the scrotum. These conditions are generally not harmful and may resolve on their own, as you have experienced in the past.

However, the fact that this lump has increased in size and is now comparable to a peanut is a significant change that warrants further investigation. While many testicular lumps are benign, it is crucial to rule out more serious conditions, including testicular cancer. Testicular cancer is most common in younger men, typically between the ages of 15 and 35, but it can occur at any age. Symptoms may include a lump or swelling in the testicle, a feeling of heaviness in the scrotum, or changes in the size or shape of the testicle.

Given your description of the lump being hard and increasing in size, I strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider, preferably a urologist. They will perform a physical examination and may order imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, to get a clearer picture of the lump's characteristics. An ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure that can help differentiate between solid masses and fluid-filled cysts.

In some cases, if the ultrasound suggests that the lump could be malignant, further testing may be necessary, including blood tests to check for tumor markers associated with testicular cancer. These markers can help in diagnosing the condition and determining the appropriate treatment.

It’s also worth noting that while the majority of testicular lumps are benign, early detection and treatment of any potential malignancy are crucial for a favorable outcome. If it turns out to be cancer, the prognosis is generally good, especially when caught early.

In summary, while it’s possible that the lump you are experiencing is benign, the change in size and hardness is concerning enough to warrant a professional evaluation. Please do not delay in seeking medical attention, as timely intervention is key in managing any potential issues effectively.

Wishing you good health and peace of mind. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns.

Best regards.

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