Why is there a hard pimple on my balls?

Hard bumps on the scrotum may be caused by sebaceous cysts, epididymitis, varicocele, lipoma or testicular tumors. Targeted treatment is required according to the specific cause.

1. Sebaceous cyst:

Blockage of sebaceous glands in the scrotal skin is a common cause of cyst formation, which manifests as a painless round induration with a smooth surface. It is usually caused by insufficient local cleaning or abnormal keratinization of hair follicles. Smaller cysts can be observed, and antibiotic treatment is required when combined with infection. Surgical removal is recommended for recurrent infections.

2. Epididymitis:

Epididymal inflammation caused by bacterial infection may form tender induration, which is often accompanied by scrotal redness and swelling and painful urination. Commonly caused by untreated urinary tract infections or sexually transmitted diseases. Antibiotic treatment is required, bed rest and scrotal elevation are required in the acute phase, and surgical intervention may be required for chronic and recurrent attacks.

3. Varicocele:

Abnormal dilation of the spermatic venous plexus may be felt as a vermiform mass in the upper part of the scrotum, which may be aggravated after standing for a long time. Related to venous valve insufficiency or increased abdominal pressure. Mild cases can be alleviated by scrotal support, but severe cases that affect reproductive function require high spermatic vein ligation under a microscope.

4. Lipoma:

Abnormal proliferation of subcutaneous fat tissue in the scrotum forms a soft mass that grows slowly and has clear borders. It is a benign tumor and is related to genetic factors or local abnormal fat metabolism. Lipomas with a diameter less than 3 cm can be observed regularly, and lipoma removal can be performed when the size is obvious or affects activities.

5. Testicular tumors:

Painless and progressively enlarging induration in the testicular parenchyma should alert you to malignant tumors, which may be accompanied by a feeling of testicular heaviness. The cause involves a history of cryptorchidism, genetic factors, etc. Ultrasound examination and tumor marker detection are required to confirm the diagnosis, and treatment is mainly radical orchiectomy, combined with radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

It is recommended to wash the scrotum with warm water every day and keep it dry, and avoid wearing tight underwear to reduce friction. When observing changes in the lump, note the size, pain level and growth rate, and avoid squeezing or applying heat on your own. The diet should be light, limit spicy food, and take appropriate vitamin supplements to enhance immunity. If symptoms such as continued enlargement of the lump, pain at night, or accompanying fever occur, you need to see a urology department immediately for a scrotal ultrasound examination. Men over 40 years old are recommended to perform a testicular self-examination once a year.