Spermatoceles

The male reproductive tract is responsible for the production, maturation of sperm, and delivery of sperm. This tract is a complex and highly integrated entity. Sperm are produced in the testicles and then are transported through the genital ductal system to the penis and out of the urethra during ejaculation. Each component of the reproductive tract is highly specialized.

Abnormalities within the male reproductive tract may appear as scrotal masses. Masses may be of little significance or may represent life-threatening illnesses. It is necessary to follow a set course of action to determine the nature of the masses and the most appropriate treatment option. For example, testicular cancer is a source of great concern and uniformly requires prompt intervention. Other masses, such as varicoceles, can cause pain or impair reproductive function. Spermatoceles are benign and generally painless masses that grow at the top of the testicle. Thus, it is important for a patient to seek prompt medical attention when he identifies a scrotal mass or abnormality while performing testicular self examination. The following information will assist you when talking to a urologist about spermatoceles.

What is a spermatoceles?

Spermatocele, also known as a spermatic cyst, are typically painless, noncancerous (benign) cysts that grow from the epididymis near the top of the testicle. Spermatoceles are typically smooth and they are usually filled with a milky or clear colored fluid containing sperm. Over time, spermatoceles may remain stable in size or they may grow. If in fact the size becomes bothersome, or results in pain, then there are several treatment options to rectify the problem. Spermatoceles are generally no more than a nuisance rather than a serious medical condition.

What can cause spermatoceles?

The precise cause of spermatoceles is not known. While spermatoceles may form as a result of trauma or inflammation, these conditions are certainly not required for spermatocele formation. Others suggest that blockage of the efferent ducts and epididymis result in spermatocele formation. Additionally, in utero exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES), a synthetic form of estrogen, has also been suggested as a possible cause.

How common are spermatoceles?

The precise incidence of spermatoceles is unknown, but an estimated 30 percent of all men have this condition. Incidence increases with age, with peak rates for the diagnosis of spermatoceles occurring in men in their forties and fifties. No racial or ethnic predispositions to spermatocele formation are known.

What are the symptoms of spermatoceles?

Men with spermatoceles usually have no symptoms. However, when associated symptoms are present, they may include scrotal heaviness and/or pain.

How are spermatoceles diagnosed?

Spermatoceles are typically discovered through a man's self-examination of his testicles or at the time of an evaluation by a physician. Light can be shined through a spermatocele (transillumination), indicating that the mass is not a solid tumor but more likely a benign cyst. Ultrasound examination remains a very reliable means of evaluation and is a relatively quick, noninvasive and inexpensive test. Other diagnostic imaging tests are not generally used although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can also be used as an adjunct in cases where scrotal ultrasound is inconclusive.

How are spermatoceles treated?

Since spermatoceles generally do not cause discomfort and often go unnoticed by patients, they rarely require treatment. Nevertheless, some affected individuals do experience significant associated symptoms, such as bothersome size or pain. When intervention is indicated, the available treatment options include:

Medical therapy: Oral analgesics or anti-inflammatory agents may be used to relieve pain associated with symptomatic spermatoceles. No other type of medical therapy is specifically indicated for the treatment of spermatoceles.

Surgical therapy: Spermatocelectomy involves surgical removal of the spermatocele from the adjoining epididymal tissue. The overall goal of surgical therapy is removal of the spermatocele with preservation of the continuity of the male reproductive tract.

Other therapies: Aspiration and sclerotherapy are two less commonly utilized approaches to treat spermatoceles. Aspiration involves puncture of the spermatocele with a needle and withdrawal of its contents into a syringe. Sclerotherapy is performed with subsequent injection of an irritating agent directly into the spermatocele sac to cause it to heal or scar closed, removing the spermatocele space and decreasing the odds of fluid reaccumulation. Although several reports describe the effectiveness and tolerability of these treatment options, they are generally not recommended. Spermatocele recurrence is a common complication with both approaches, and chemical epididymitis and pain are common complications with sclerotherapy. Furthermore, aspiration and sclerotherapy have limited applicability in men of reproductive age, due to the significant risk of epididymal damage potentially leading to obstruction and resultant subfertility.

What can be expected after surgical treatment?

Spermatocelectomy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, under a variety of possible anesthetic agents. Patients are generally discharged home with a pressure dressing consisting of an athletic supporter filled with fluffy gauze. Ice packs are applied for two to three days to minimize swelling. Oral pain medications are generally used for one to two days postoperatively. Patients may shower 24 to 48 hours after surgery, and a follow-up visit is scheduled for one to two weeks after the procedure.

Potential complications of spermatocelectomy include fever, infection, bleeding (scrotal hematoma) and persistent pain. Furthermore, inadvertent epididymal obstruction may result, which can lead to subfertility or infertility. Therefore, intervention should be avoided in men who still desire children. These complications may potentially be minimized by use of meticulous surgical technique (including use of an operating microscope or optical magnification).

Frequently asked questions:

Do spermatoceles lead to testicular cancer?
Spermatoceles are benign epididymal lesions. They are separate and distinct from the testicle. Patients with spermatoceles do not have an identified increased risk of testicular cancer.

Are any medications available to cure my spermatocele or prevent the formation of additional ones?
Medications are available to treat associated discomfort or pain, but no medication will lead to resolution or prevention of spermatoceles.

How often should I perform scrotal self-exams?
These exams should be performed at least once per month. Your physician can instruct you in the specific technique. If you detect any suspicious changes, such as increasing size or unusual firmness of scrotal structures, contact your physician.

Adapted from: American Urological Association Education and Research