Scrotal Lumps Flashcards
What is a hydrocele?
A hydrocele is an accumulation of fluid in the tunica vaginalis, leading to scrotal swelling.
How does a hydrocele typically present on examination?
It presents as a smooth, firm mass that transilluminates and may make the testicle impalpable if large.
What is a varicocele?
A varicocele is an abnormal dilatation of veins in the pampiniform venous plexus within the scrotum.
How does a varicocele feel on palpation?
It often feels like a “bag of worms” and may be more prominent when standing or with increased intra-abdominal pressure.
What is a spermatocele?
A spermatocele is a benign cystic accumulation of sperm that arises from the head of the epididymis.
How does a spermatocele present clinically?
It presents as a painless, cystic mass separate from the testis and typically transilluminates.
What is an epididymal cyst?
An epididymal cyst is a benign fluid-filled sac arising from the epididymis, containing clear serous fluid.
How can you differentiate an epididymal cyst from a spermatocele?
Both present similarly; however, epididymal cysts contain clear fluid, while spermatoceles contain sperm.
What is epididymitis?
Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis, often due to infection.
What are common symptoms of epididymitis?
Symptoms include scrotal pain, swelling, erythema, and sometimes fever.
What is testicular torsion?
Testicular torsion is the twisting of the spermatic cord, leading to compromised blood flow to the testicle.
How does testicular torsion present?
It presents with sudden, severe scrotal pain, swelling, and an elevated testicle; it is a surgical emergency.
What is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer is a malignant growth within the testicle, most common in men aged 15-45 years.
How does testicular cancer typically present?
It often presents as a painless, hard testicular mass that does not transilluminate.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia occurs when abdominal contents protrude through the inguinal canal into the scrotum.
How can an inguinal hernia be identified during examination?
It may present as a scrotal mass that increases with coughing or straining and may be reducible.
What is the significance of transillumination in evaluating scrotal masses?
Transillumination helps differentiate cystic (e.g., hydrocele) from solid masses (e.g., testicular tumour); cystic masses typically transilluminate.
What is Fournier’s gangrene?
Fournier’s gangrene is a rapidly progressing necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum and scrotum, requiring emergency treatment.
What are common risk factors for Fournier’s gangrene?
Risk factors include diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression, and local trauma or infection.
What is a scrotal abscess?
A scrotal abscess is a localized collection of pus within the scrotal tissues, often due to infection.
How does a scrotal abscess present clinically?
It presents with scrotal pain, swelling, erythema, and may have fluctuance on palpation.
What is a haematocele?
A haematocele is an accumulation of blood within the tunica vaginalis, usually due to trauma.
How does a haematocele differ from a hydrocele on examination?
Unlike a hydrocele, a haematocele does not transilluminate and may be tender if acute.
What is a scrotal lipoma?
A scrotal lipoma is a benign tumour composed of fat cells, often presenting as a soft, non-tender mass.
What is the “silk glove sign” associated with?
The “silk glove sign” is associated with an indirect inguinal hernia, felt as a thickened processus vaginalis during examination.
