Transillumination

[fabioli]

I've found a lump on my right testicle, larger than left one, 2 months ago. My doctor did me a transillumination and said me it could me a cyst or a spermatocele (according to him ...harmless).
I'm sufering of a bilateral varicocele, but painless. Are cysts corrrelated to varicoceles or not? Thanks in advance.

[fabioli]

nobody helping me?

[Scott]

Has it changed at all since you were checked?

(I don't know whether there is any correlation between incidence of varicoceles and cysts.)

[Karen]

fabioli,
I have not read of a a correlation between varicocles and cysts. I wouldn't be satisfied with a transillumination and would insist on an ultrasound. While a transillumination can detect a hydrocele, it is possible that the hydrocele (fluid filled cyst) is formed as a recation to something else...like a tumor. An ultrasound is much more definative and will also let you know if your varicocoles have changed (assume they were diagnosed by an ultrasound?)

[Scott]

While a transillumination can detect a hydrocele, it is possible that the hydrocele (fluid filled cyst) is formed as a recation to something else...like a tumor.

Yes, I can vouch for that from personal experience!

[Davie]

I was categorically told by my Consultant that transillumination is not reliable to prove cancer or otherwise. Get that ultrasound done!!!

[tlh]

I was told that the lump on the back of my testicle was probably an epididymal cyst. My GP also told me that under the light the lump "transilluminated". However, just to be sure, he ordered an ultrasound. Good thing he did -- 3 days later I had the testicle removed. Stage 1 Seminoma, 1cm x 1cm x 1.4 cm with no Angiolymphatic invasion or Spermatic cord invasion, markers all normal and CT scan clear. I'm told I caught this very early. By the way, I had gone to see my GP for a totally unrelated matter and happened to bring up the lump just in passing. Thank God I did!!!

[IowaBrian]

With all the tech we have to only use a light to dx is very old school I would be asking for a ultrasound way too much at risk. After the ultrasound they will know what is going on and can come up with a treatment plan.
Brian