Ask Dr Miriam

QI’m in my 60s and over the past few years a lump has appeared in my scrotum almost the same size as my testicle. A male doctor has drained it on several occasions and then a lady doctor took over and drained it and it’s disappeared. I’m just wondering if it will come back again.

AIt sounds as though you have a hydrocele which is a benign swelling of the scrotum caused by a cyst containing fluid. It has no sinister implications. I’m glad that your lady doctor seems to have done the trick but, honestly, I do think there’s the possibility it may return. As you get older the fluid will become less and less and cause less discomfort. But if you’re really worried I think you should see a genitourinary specialist who can give you advice on whether it ought to be tampered with, other than by periodic draining. Chat to your doctor about that possibility.