Spermatocele

[7] "Spermatocele" is originally derived from the Greek term spermatos (sperm) and kele (cavity or mass).

[12] Before puberty, children from the male sex may develop a similar benign mass called epididymis cyst.

[13] Some signs and symptoms include localized tenderness and swelling in the epididymis, which are different from any tenderness/abnormality present in the testis, these are usually not found in lower urinary tract.

Some factors that predispose individuals to chronic infectious epididymitis include sexual activity, heavy physical exertion, and bicycle or motorcycle riding.

[14] Those diagnosed with chronic or recurrent epididymitis should receive a CT scan with contrast and a prostate ultrasonography to rule out structural abnormality of the urinary tract.

Noninfectious epididymitis that happens spontaneously might be caused by the reflux of urine through the ejaculatory ducts and vas deferens into the epididymis, producing inflammation that leads to swelling and ductal obstruction.

Typical inciting factors include prolonged periods of sitting (long plane or car travel, sedentary desk jobs) or vigorous exercise (heavy lifting).

It is often that individuals with chronic noninfectious epididymitis will present with a history of a lack of symptom improvement while on antibiotic therapy.

Management of chronic noninfectious epididymitis includes scrotal elevation, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (unless unable to take for medical reasons), and it is recommended that individuals avoid physical activities that may cause said symptoms.

Those with sedentary jobs or often experience prolonged periods of time sitting should practice physical mobility more frequently.

However, doctors stopped prescribing this medication in 1971 since it increased the risk of women developing a rare vaginal cancer.

[6] Scarring of any part of the epididymis due to trauma or inflammation can cause it to become obstructed and in turn form a spermatocele.

[4] Spermatoceles can be discovered as incidental scrotal masses found on physical examination by a physician or by self-inspection of the scrotum and testicles.

[8] The primary care physician may diagnose and manage benign causes of scrotal masses such as hydrocele, varicocele and spermatocele.

[9] The incidence of these cysts are possibly linked to boys who are exposed to diethylstilbestrol, an estrogen medication, while in the fetus.

However, caregivers should take note of any discomfort and symptoms in children, including but not limited to, erythema, scrotal edema or swelling.

[7] Certain drugs such as oral analgesics or anti-inflammatory medications can be taken by mouth to decrease spermatocele-related symptoms such as pain and/or swelling.

To treat the inflammation and pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are recommended such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), naproxen (Aleve), and others.

[7] Due to a higher risk of epididymis damage, fertility problems, and further recurrences, these procedures are not recommended and not commonly used.

[26] There is no way to prevent a spermatocele from forming, but there are routines that can be established to help identify any changes in a person's scrotum such as masses, abnormalities, or discomfort.

Performing a monthly testicular self-exam can improve the person's chances of identifying spermatoceles or any abnormalities quickly.

Micrograph of a spermatocele. The characteristic sperm are present (black dots - left of image). H&E stain .
Dilated rete testis containing spermatozoa within cyst lumen. H&E stain 20x
Image of the male reproductive system