Medical Terminology for Testicular Mass
A mass in a man's testicle is most commonly called a testicular mass or testicular tumor in medical terminology, with the specific diagnosis depending on whether it is intratesticular (inside the testis) or extratesticular (outside the testis). 1, 2
Key Clinical Distinctions
The critical first determination is whether the mass is intratesticular or extratesticular, as approximately 90% of intratesticular masses are malignant, while extratesticular masses are usually benign. 3, 4
Intratesticular Masses
Germ cell tumors (GCTs) represent 90-95% of testicular cancers and are divided into two main types: 5
The term testicular germ cell cancer (TGCC) is used when referring to malignant germ cell tumors specifically 1
Less common intratesticular masses include lymphoma, sex cord-stromal tumors, and metastases 7
Extratesticular Masses (Usually Benign)
Epididymal cysts (or spermatoceles when containing sperm) - the most common finding in scrotal lumps, accounting for 27% of cases 4
Hydrocele - fluid collection between layers of the tunica vaginalis, found in 11% of cases 4
Clinical Presentation
The most common presenting symptom is a painless testicular mass, though some patients may present with pain 5, 7
Testicular cancer primarily affects Caucasian males aged 15-40 years, with a mean age at diagnosis of 33 years 1, 5
Diagnostic Terminology
Testicular sonography or scrotal ultrasound is the mandatory first-line imaging study to characterize any testicular mass 1, 2, 3
The definitive diagnosis requires radical inguinal orchiectomy, which provides histological confirmation 1, 6, 2
Important Clinical Caveat
Any solid mass within the testis should be managed as malignant until proven otherwise, requiring urgent scrotal ultrasound and serum tumor markers (AFP, β-HCG, LDH) before any intervention. 3 The high malignancy rate of intratesticular masses (90%) makes this assumption critical for appropriate management. 3, 4