TESTICULAR MASSES

Family physicians often must evaluate patients With testicular pain or masses. The incidental finding of a scrotal mass may also require eva luation. Patients may seek evaluation of a scrotal mass as an incident al finding. An accurate history combined with a complete examination o f the male external genitalia will help indicate a preliminary diagnos is and proper treatment. Family physicians must keep in mind the emerg ency or ''must not miss'' diagnoses associated with testicular masses, including testicular torsion, epididymitis, acute orchitis, strangula ted hernia and testicular cancer. Referral to a urologist should be ma de immediately if one of these diagnoses is suspected. Benign causes o f scrotal masses, including hydrocele, varicocele and spermatocele, ma y be diagnosed and managed easily in the primary care office.