Overview
Diagnosis
To determine the type of scrotal mass, your healthcare professional may recommend several tests:
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Physical exam: The doctor examines your scrotum, its contents, and nearby groin areas while you stand and lie down.
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Transillumination: Shining a light through the scrotum can provide details about the size, location, and composition of the mass.
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Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create images of the scrotum, showing the size, location, composition, and condition of the testicles. This is often essential for diagnosis.
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Urine test: Lab analysis of urine may detect infections, blood, or pus.
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Blood test: Can reveal bacterial or viral infections or elevated proteins linked to testicular cancer.
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CT scan: If cancer is suspected, a CT scan of the chest, abdomen, and groin can determine if the cancer has spread.
Treatment
Treatment for a scrotal mass depends on its underlying cause.
Infections
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Bacterial infections such as epididymitis are treated with antibiotics.
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Viral infections usually require rest, ice, and pain relief medication.
Non-cancerous masses
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Some benign masses may not need treatment.
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Others may require surgical removal, repair, or drainage based on factors such as pain, risk of infertility, or infection.
Testicular cancer
Treatment is guided by an oncologist and depends on the stage and spread of the cancer, as well as age and overall health. Options include:
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Radical inguinal orchiectomy: Surgical removal of the affected testicle and spermatic cord, sometimes including nearby lymph nodes if cancer has spread.
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Chemotherapy: Administered through a vein to kill cancer cells, used when cancer spreads or to prevent recurrence after surgery.
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Radiation therapy: High-energy X-rays target cancer cells, primarily in lymph nodes, often used after surgery.
Most early-stage testicular cancers are curable. Even cancers that have spread beyond the testicle may be curable, though follow-up care is essential to monitor for recurrence.
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