Spermatocele is an accumulation of sperm that occurs in the upper part of the epididymis and is considered a harmless cyst.
Spermatocele is an accumulation of sperm that occurs in the upper part of the epididymis and is considered a harmless cyst. Although the patient becomes alarmed when he notices this, these lesions are benign. Spermatocele can be observed in different places in the region from the testicle to the sperm duct. It can be felt during physical examination and is usually smaller than 1 cm. It has been found that it can rarely be larger.
It is detected incidentally in 30% of people who underwent ultrasound examination for different reasons. There is no clear information about the actual incidence. However, it is more common in men between the ages of 20-50. There is no theory accepted by everyone as to the reason for its formation. However, it is accepted that it may occur due to blockage of one of the sperm ducts.
Spermatocele are scrotal masses with smooth, soft, regular borders that can usually be clearly identified. It can be confused with hydrocele, varicocele, hernia, simple epididymal cyst and tumors. However, it can be distinguished from these diseases by taking a past history, examination and ultrasound.
Spermatocele is typically located in the head part of the epididymis, located at the back of the testicle. On the other hand, hydrocele is fluid accumulation that surrounds the front and sides of the testicle. A varicocele is a coil of enlarged veins around the spermatic cord. A hernia is the filling of intra-abdominal organs through a tear into an abnormal intrascrotal peritoneal width. Unlike spermatocele, varicocele and hernia growth are observed when intra-abdominal pressure increases during the Valsalva maneuver.
Spermatocele usually does not cause symptoms, does not cause infertility and does not require treatment. However, in cases where the patient feels uncomfortable, suffers pain and the spermatocele is constantly growing, an intervention may be required.
Treatment of spermatocele is sclerotherapy or surgical excision.
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