Q I'm in my mid-40s and recently discovered a small growth, about the size of a pea, on the outer skin of my testis. It isn't painful but is hard to the touch. Could it be serious?

A If the lump is on the scrotal skin, it is probably a sebaceous cyst and is benign. A sebaceous cyst can occasionally become infected and cause pain. If there is pain, it is advisable to get the cyst removed. You should also do a thorough self-examination of the testis to ensure that the lump does not arise from the testis itself, as this would warrant medical attention. Seek medical help if you have any further doubts.

Dr Fong Yan Kit is a consultant urologist at Raffles Hospital.

This story was first published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times, on May 7, 2008.