Benign Testicular Lumps

The main causes of swelling or lumps in the testes are:

• Hydrocele – this is a build-up of fluid around the testicle which causes swelling; it often affects newborn babies and happens to adult males, usually as a result of injury or infection.
• Varicocele – a varicocele is a soft lump with a veiny or ‘wormy’ texture, which occurs when veins within the scrotum become swollen and enlarged, leading to generalised swelling.
• Epididymal cyst – a small, smooth collection of fluid in the epididymis (a tube behind the testicles) which causes a lump that is painless or possibly with an aching or heavy feeling.
• Epididymo-orchitis – a term to describe inflammation of the epididymis and testicles, which can sometimes lead to reduced sperm count (not significantly enough to affect fertility).
• Inguinal hernias – in this condition, fatty tissue or a part of the bowel pokes through into the groin at the top of the inner thigh, causing enlargement of the scrotum.