Testicular lumps and swellings
Visit your GP if you notice any changes in your testicles.
Most testicular lumps are not caused by Testicular cancer and many do not necessarily need any treatment, but it is best to get them checked out.
Your GP will ask you whether you have:
They will also want to examine your testicles to check:
Your GP may hold a small light or torch against the lump in your testicle to see whether light passes through it. This can help differentiate between solid lumps and lumps caused by a build-up of fluid (such as hydroceles).
Depending on what your GP thinks may be the cause of your symptoms, you may be referred to a specialist such asa urologist (a doctor specialising in conditions affecting the urinary system) for further assessment or your GP may arrange more tests.
If testicular torsion is suspected, you will usually be referred to hospital for an urgent assessment to see whether an immediate operation is necessary.
Your GP may takea urine sample if they suspect your lump or swelling may be caused by an infection. Theymay also use a swab (small cotton bud) to collect a sample of cells and fluid from your urethra (the tube that carries urine out of the body). This sample can also be tested to see if you have an infection.
You may be referred to a genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic if it is thought you may have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) .
An ultrasound scan is used if there is any uncertainty about the cause of your lump or swelling. This is a painless scan that uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the inside of your scrotum.
An ultrasound scan can help give a clearer indication ofwhether the lump is solid or filled with fluid and can help determine the likelihood of the lump being cancerous.
Lumps and swellings in the testicles are a relatively common symptom in boys and men, and can have a number of different causes.
Most testicular lumps and swellings are caused by benign (non-cancerous) conditions, although occasionally they can be a symptom of testicular cancer.
Always visit your GP if you notice any lumps or swellings in your testicles.
Treatment for your testicular lump or swelling will depend on the underlying cause. Some lumps may not need to be treated at all if they are not causing any problems.