Suggest Treatment For Epididymal Cysts

Posted on Fri, 24 Oct 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 25 Oct 2014 Answered on

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I was diagnosed with an epididymal cyst about 13 years ago. Had ultrasounds etc to confirm. It was said it was most likely caused my a significant scrotal trauma I'd received about 6 months prior. The ache to the testical, groin, lower back and abdomen eventually subsided. I had re-occurrences of pain about twice a year for about 7 years and that testical has always been a little more tender. I've had no repeat for about 5 years or so until just recently. It's exactly the same as I've experienced before but after such a long time without the re-occurrence of discomfort I thought I'd just check in. Firstly is it common that these things can cause pain so intermittently. And secondly will it pass again and if so how long will it take. I'm taking ibroprofen to ease the pain which has lasted about 5 days so far and it's getting boring. The pain is constant and whilst not unbearable it's enough to be a constant inconvenience. It's enough to stop me wanting to excercise, go for long walks and sex is completely out of the question. Your opinion would be appreciated. I'm currently 40 years old. Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Epidydymal cyst removal

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for contacting HCM with your medical concerns.

You have recently be diagnosed with an epididymis cyst from a prior trauma. This is also commonly found after having a vasectomy. These cysts are known to cause pain and discomfort which can radiate into the back and groin. This pain will interfere with your activities. It will come and go sometimes with no apparent reason. To help reduce the pain I do recommend taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen. I also recommend wearing tight underwear to give good support. Contact sports may also increase chance for pain. If the pain is bad enough then a surgical removal of the cyst maybe needed. From your description you maybe a candidate for removal. I recommend that you see a urologist for possible removal of the cyst.

Hope this answers your question. Please contact us again with your health care questions and concerns

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj

Follow up: Dr. Ronald Schubert (1 hour later)

I was diagnosed 13 years ago. Pain came back randomly for about 7 years (roughly twice a year) but then nothing for the last 5 years. This is the first 'flare up' for a long time. Should I expect it to go again on it's own. Or do you think given this history inshould consider removal? It was actuslly from contact sports that i git the original injury (kickboxing). I just wanted to clarify that this has been a long standing issue that had been dormant for sometime and windered if this info changed your opionion on surgical removal. If I was to leave it and see if it passes on its own, how long should I give it before seeking medical help? I inderstand there's no harm in not treating these, is that right?

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Episodic pain

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for contacting HCM with your follow up question.

The pain from the cyst should probably gradually resolve on its own. Since this is something that is very infrequent then removal is not really required. If you wear the tighter underwear it will help support your testicle and reduce the pain. Also taking the Naprosyn will the pain. To have the pain resolve it may take 1-2 weeks.

These cysts are completely benign and do not require any real medical intervention. The only reason to have them removed is if the pain is persistent and severe enough that it impacts your lifestyle.

Hope this answers your question. Please contact us again with your health care questions and concerns

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T