SCROTAL MASSES

Differential diagnosis:

• Inguinal hernia
• Hydrocele-Fluid in processus vaginalis (through which the testes descend to the scrotum in development)
• Spermatoceles-Retention cyst in epididymis (ultrasound can differentiate from other causes)
• Varicoceles-Dilated, tortuous veins of pampiniform plexus in the spermatic cord; "bag of worms" feeling on palpation.  Most common scrotal mass in adolescents; may be associated with infertility
• Testicular masses e.g. tumor