Section: Overview
A spermatocele is a cystic distension of the epididymis, the elongated cordlike structure that provides for storage, transit, and maturation of sperm. This condition is usually associated with a blockage of the epididymis. The accumulation of sperm eventually results in an inflammatory process, and the development of a nodule of tissue, referred to as a sperm granuloma. They can be unilateral or bilateral.
Causes
Trauma
Adenomysis is a condition characterized by the ingrowth of the epididymis lining into the deeper tissues, which may be associated with excess estrogenic stimulation.
Hyperplasia is an overgrowth of the lining of the epididymis.
Spermatocele is seen in intact (non-neutered) male dogs of any breed. The risk of developing this disorder increases with age.
What to Watch For
Spermatoceles are rarely associated with pain
Dogs with one-sided involvement generally remain fertile, and the condition often goes undiagnosed.
Infertility is often seen if both testes are involved.
Diagnosis
Thorough testicular examination
Complete blood count (CBC)
Biochemical profile
Urinalysis
A scrotal ultrasound may detect a spermatocele
Assay for canine follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) may reveal a normal concentration associated with bilateral blockage of the epididymis
An obstruction of the duct should be suspected in a dog that is unable to produce sperm; however, there is normal spermatogenesis (sperm production) on testicular biopsy
Treatment
There is no medical management available to unblock an obstructed (blocked) epididymis
Surgical correction can be attempted, although it is not routinely performed in veterinary medicine
Home Care
If a breeding stud is infertile, have your dog evaluated by your veterinarian. Dogs without sperm rarely recover.
A spermatocele is a cystic distension of the epididymis, the elongated cordlike structure that provides for storage, transit, and maturation of sperm. This condition is usually associated with a blockage of the epididymis. The accumulation of sperm eventually results in an inflammatory process, and the development of a nodule of tissue, referred to as a sperm granuloma. They can be unilateral or bilateral.
Causes
Trauma
Adenomysis is a condition characterized by the ingrowth of the epididymis lining into the deeper tissues, which may be associated with excess estrogenic stimulation.
Hyperplasia is an overgrowth of the lining of the epididymis.
Spermatocele is seen in intact (non-neutered) male dogs of any breed. The risk of developing this disorder increases with age.
What to Watch For
Spermatoceles are rarely associated with pain
Dogs with one-sided involvement generally remain fertile, and the condition often goes undiagnosed.
Infertility is often seen if both testes are involved.
Diagnosis
Thorough testicular examination
Complete blood count (CBC)
Biochemical profile
Urinalysis
A scrotal ultrasound may detect a spermatocele
Assay for canine follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) may reveal a normal concentration associated with bilateral blockage of the epididymis
An obstruction of the duct should be suspected in a dog that is unable to produce sperm; however, there is normal spermatogenesis (sperm production) on testicular biopsy
Treatment
There is no medical management available to unblock an obstructed (blocked) epididymis
Surgical correction can be attempted, although it is not routinely performed in veterinary medicine
Home Care
If a breeding stud is infertile, have your dog evaluated by your veterinarian. Dogs without sperm rarely recover.
