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Scrotal swelling

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy

Alternative Names    Return to top

Swelling of the scrotum; Testicular enlargement

Definition    Return to top

Scrotal swelling is abnormal enlargement of the scrotum, the sac surrounding the testicles.

Considerations    Return to top

Scrotal swelling can occur in males at any age. The swelling can be on one or both sides, and there may be pain. The testicles and penis may or may not be involved.

Testicular torsion is a serious emergency in which the testicle become twisted in the scrotum and loses its blood supply. If this twisting is not relieved quickly, the testicle may be lost permanently. This condition is extremely painful. Call 911 or see your health care provider immediately, because losing blood supply for just a few hours can cause tissue death and the loss of a testicle.

Causes    Return to top

Home Care    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Call your health care provider if:

What to Expect at Your Office Visit    Return to top

Your health care provider will perform a physical examination and take a medical history, which may include the following questions:

The physical examination will probably include a detailed examination of the scrotum, testicles, and penis. The combination of a physical exam and history will determine whether you need any tests.

Your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics and pain medications, or recommend surgery. A scrotal ultrasound may be done to determine where the swelling is occurring.

References    Return to top

Schneck FX, Bellinger MF. Abnormalities of the Testes and Scrotum and their Surgical Management. In: Wein AJ, ed. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 127.

Elder JS. Disorders and Anomalies of the Scrotal Contents. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 545.

Update Date: 9/7/2008

Updated by: Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Louis S. Liou, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Urology, Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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