Swollen Testicles and Scrotum

The male genitals are exterior to the body. They include the penis, the scrotum and the testicles (testes). The testes produce the sperm that is part of reproduction (Read about "Reproductive Health") as well as other hormones. The scrotum is a sack that holds the testes that expands and contracts based on temperature.

There are a number of conditions that can cause swelling of the testicles and/or scrotum, including, but not limited to:

• Epididymitis - This is a swelling of the epididymis. The epididymis is located on the backside of each testicle that serves as a storage point for sperm. Swelling can be caused by infection or by harmless cysts. The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) says that cysts in the epididymis are the most common abnormality in sons of women who took DES, a drug used to prevent miscarriages during the middle of the 20th century. They can come and go for no reason at all. NICHD says they do not need to be treated unless they are painful. Swelling caused by bacteria can be the result of a sexually transmitted disease, a urinary tract infection or from other infections. (Read about "Microorganisms" "STD's" "Urinary Tract Infections") This needs to be treated, often with antibiotics. (Read about "Antibiotics") If you notice swelling of the testicles or scrotum, you should see your doctor to rule out any serious causes.
• Hydrocele - This is accumulation of fluid around the testes. It can be present in newborn males, but usually goes away by the time the child is one year old. Hydrocele can also develop at other ages, particularly in middle aged and older men. Injury or inflammation can result in hydrocele in older men, as can radiation therapy for cancer. (Read about "Radiation Therapy") Hydrocele can also be associated with an inguinal hernia. (Read about "Hernia") The condition is usually not painful. Surgery may be need if hydrocele does not go away on its own, if it is painful or if it continues to grow. If you notice swelling of the testicles or scrotum, you should see your doctor to rule out any serious causes. If an infant's hydrocele doesn't disappear, or if it seems to be getting larger, it should be evaluated.
• Orchitis - This is an inflammation of the testes sometimes caused by the mumps. (Read about "Childhood Illnesses") In rare cases, it can also be caused by other viral or bacterial infections. Injuries or trauma can also result in orchitis. If you notice swelling of the testicles or scrotum, you should see your doctor to rule out any serious causes.
• Tumors and/or cancer - Testicular tumors and/or cancer can cause swelling of the testicles. There may also be a lump. The American Cancer Society says testicular cancer is not common. However, swelling or suspicious signs should be checked by a doctor. (Read about "Testicular Cancer")
• Varicocele - A varicocele is an irregularly swollen or varicose vein on the testicle. There are valves that keep the blood going in the right direction in the veins. Sometimes those valves weaken or don't work correctly and the blood backs up. When that happens, the blood can collect and become congested and clogged. If you notice swelling of the testicles or scrotum, you should see your doctor to rule out any serious causes. This enlarged vein produces a higher temperature than is normal for testicles, and - over a period of years - can lower the number of normal sperm as a result. (Read about "Infertility")

NICHD says all lumps or swelling should be checked by a doctor.