Epididymal cysts

Question 1

What is a spermatocele?

Answer 1

A benign, sperm filled epididymal retention cyst

Question 2

What is the aetiology of a spermatocele?

Answer 2

Multiple theories:

• distal obstruction
• aneurysmal dilations of the epididymis
• agglutinated germ cells

Question 3

CFx of spermatocele?

Answer 3

• Non tender, cystic mass

- Transilluminates

Question 4

Ix in ?spermatocele?

Answer 4

• PEx

- U/S to r/o tumour

Question 5

Mx spermatocele?

Answer 5

• Conservative
• Avoid needle aspiration as it can lead to infection, reaccumulation and spilling or irritating sperm within the scrotum
• Excise if symptomatic

Question 6

Ddx of benign scrotal mass?

Answer 6

HIS BITS

• Haematocele
• Infection (epididymitis / orchitis)
• Sperm: spermatocele
• Blood: haematocele
• Intestines (hernia)
• Torsion
• Some veins (varicocele)