1/  Diagram of the scrotum. On the left side the tunica vaginalis cavity as been opened; on the right side the layers superficial to the Cremaster muscle have been removed.

 

 

 

2/ A common problem of the scrotum is the development of masses. Common scrotal problem masses include :

 

Picture of the Scrotum - Hydrocele - A hydrocele testis is the accumulation of fluids around a testicle, and is quite common. It is caused by fluid secreted from a piece of peritoneum wrapped around the testicle, called the tunica vaginalis. It can be the result of cancer, trauma (such as a hernia), or orchitis. It may be treated with surgery. Hydroceles are usually not painful. One way of diagnosing a hydrocele is by shining a strong light through the enlarged scrotum. A hydrocele will usually pass light, while a tumor won't.

 

Picture of the Scrotum - Hematocele - The term refers to the pooling of blood in the tunica vaginalis around the testicle. Hematoceles are more painful than a hydrocele.

 

Picture of the Scrotum - Spermatocele - is a cyst of a tubule of the rete testis or the top of the epididymis distended with a milky fluid that contains spermatozoa. Spermatoceles are the most common cystic condition encountered within the scrotum. They vary in size from a couple of millimeters to many centimeters. Spermatoceles are generally not painful. Some men may experience discomfort from larger spermatoceles.

 

Picture of the Scrotum - Varicocele - is an abnormal enlargement of the vein that is in the scrotum draining the testicles. The testicular blood vessels originate in the abdomen and run down through the inguinal canal as part of the spermatic cord on their path to the testis. The return flow of blood in the veins is handled by small one-way valves that stop backflow. Defective valves, or compression of the vein by a nearby structure, can cause dilatation of the veins near the testis, thereby forming a varicocele.

 

 

Picture of the Scrotum - Varicocele - is usually harmless except in cases of infertility. If surgery is required because of infertility or testicular atrophy, the outcome is usually very good. Removal of the varicocele can lead to normal testicular temperatures and an increased sperm production. An inguinal hernia can sometimes be misdiagnosed as a varicocele.