Epididymal cysts

Epididymal cysts

These are filled with a clear fluid. They are very common, usually multiple and vary in size at presentation. They represent cystic degeneration of the epididymis. Cysts of the epididymis are usually found in middle age and are often bilateral. The clusters of tense cysts feel like tiny bunches of grapes that lie posterior to, and quite separate from, the testis. They should transilluminate. The diagnosis can by confirmed by ultrasound ( Figure 86.11 ). Aspiration is ine ff ective because the cysts are usually multi - locular. If they are causing discomfort they should be excised. While single large cysts can be excised separately , recurrent or multilocular cysts usually require partial or total epididy - mectomy . Excision should be expected to interfere with the transportation of sperm from the testis on that side and young men should be counselled regar ding this.