What is a Spermatocele

Spermatocele is a fluid-filled sac (cyst) inside the scrotum. This type of cyst often forms at the top of the testicle where sperm is stored (epididymis).

The cyst sometimes forms along the tube that carries sperm away from the epididymis (vas deferens).

Spermatoceles are usually painless. Most cysts are small, but they can grow larger. Spermatoceles are not cancerous (are benign).

What are the causes?

The cause of this condition is not known.

What are the signs or symptoms?

In most cases, small cysts do not cause symptoms. If you do have symptoms, they may include:

• Dull pain.
• A feeling of heaviness.
• An enlargement of your scrotum, if the cyst is large.

How is this diagnosed?

This condition is diagnosed based on a physical exam. You or your health care provider may notice the cyst when feeling your scrotum. Your provider may shine a light through (transilluminate) your scrotum to see if light will pass through the cyst. You may also have an ultrasound of your scrotum to rule out a tumor.

How is this treated?

Small spermatoceles do not need to be treated. If the spermatocele has grown large or is uncomfortable, surgery to remove the cyst may be recommended.

Follow these instructions at home:

• Watch your spermatocele for any changes.
• Keep all follow-up visits as told by your health care provider. This is important.

Contact a health care provider if:

• Your spermatocele gets larger.
• You have pain in your scrotum.
• Your spermatocele comes back after treatment.