Scrotal swelling

SYMPTOMS

A swelling in the scrotum may be caused by many different conditions.

If you have a painful swelling you may have a testicular torsion, which is a urological emergency and requires urgent assessment. Delaying treatment by even a few hours may result in the loss of a testicle.

A testicular cancer usually presents as a painless swelling in the body of the testicle. You may also notice a change in the shape or texture of the testicle. Testicular cancers are one of the most treatable forms of cancers, especially if diagnosed early. Seek prompt medical review if you have any concerns.

More common causes of scrotal swellings include infections (epididymo-orchitis), hydrocele (a collection of fluid around the testicle), epididymal cysts (fluid filled sac arising from the epididymis) or a varicocele (a collection of dilated veins surrounding the spermatic cord).

Many of these are entirely benign conditions and only require intervention if they are painful or bothersome to you in other ways.