Testicle lump

Alternative names:

lump in the testicle

Definition:

Lump or swelling in the testicle(s).

Considerations:

Very few men know how to look for lumps in their testes or bother to do so. Men should be taught by their health care provider how to examine their testes just as most women examine their breasts.

A testicular lump that doesn't hurt may be a sign of cancer, especially in young men aged 20 to 35 years.

Common causes:

Possible causes if testicle is painful:

• local injury
• epididymitis
• infection of the scrotal sac
• mumps
• testicular torsion

Possible causes if testicle is not painful:

• cancer
• hydrocele
• loop of bowel from hernia
• varicocele

Note: There may be other causes of a testicle lump. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as location, quality, time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for a testicle lump, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.