What does it mean if there is a small lump on the testicle?
Sep 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
A small lump on the testicle may be caused by testicular torsion, varicocele, hydrocele, epididymitis, or epididymal cysts. It is important to maintain personal hygiene and keep the genital area clean and dry; wear loose, breathable underwear; avoid prolonged sitting and engage in moderate exercise; reduce local friction, which can help prevent the development of lumps on the testicles.
Under normal circumstances, the presence of a small lump on the testicle may be caused by testicular torsion, varicocele, hydrocele, epididymitis, or epididymal cyst. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Testicular Torsion
Testicular torsion usually results from abnormal twisting of the spermatic cord, which suddenly obstructs blood supply to the testicle. It commonly occurs in individuals with congenital abnormalities of the testis or spermatic cord, or after intense physical activity, and may present as a small lump on the testicle. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as pain, nausea, and vomiting. Surgical exploration should be performed under medical guidance to reposition and fix the twisted testicle, preventing recurrence.
2. Varicocele
Varicocele typically arises due to impaired venous return within the spermatic cord veins or insufficient venous valve function causing blood reflux, leading to abnormal elongation, dilation, and tortuosity of the pampiniform plexus veins. It is common among young adult males. In early stages, it may present as mild vein protrusion or a small lump. Treatment under medical supervision may include medications such as diosmin tablets, sodium aescinate tablets, or ibuprofen tablets.
3. Hydrocele
A hydrocele usually develops when there is increased secretion or decreased absorption by the tunica vaginalis, or an imbalance between secretion and absorption, resulting in excessive fluid accumulation within the tunica vaginalis cavity. This may form a small lump on the surface of the testicle and may be accompanied by sensations of heaviness or mild distending pain. Surgical intervention such as tunica vaginalis eversion (Jaboulay procedure) is recommended under medical guidance—removing excess tunica vaginalis and everting and suturing it.
4. Epididymitis
Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis caused by bacterial infection. Inflammatory stimulation leads to congestion, edema, and hyperplasia of epididymal tissue, forming inflammatory nodules or masses that manifest as a small lump on the testicle, possibly accompanied by pain, redness, swelling, and fever. Under medical advice, treatment may include medications such as ribavirin granules, ganciclovir capsules, or famciclovir tablets.
5. Epididymal Cyst
An epididymal cyst is usually caused by obstruction of the epididymal duct, local inflammation, or trauma. A cyst formed in the epididymal area near the testicle may also appear as a small lump and may cause sensations of dragging discomfort or pain. If the cyst enlarges, percutaneous aspiration under medical guidance is recommended—inserting a fine needle into the cyst and using negative pressure suction to drain the fluid, thereby reducing cyst pressure and volume.
Maintaining good personal hygiene, keeping the genital area clean and dry, wearing loose and breathable underwear, avoiding prolonged sitting, engaging in moderate exercise, and minimizing local friction can help prevent the development of lumps on the testicles.
