FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What does a varicocele feel like upon examination?

1. A firm lump

2. A hard mass

3. A soft 'bag of worms'

4. A swollen testicle

The correct answer is: A soft 'bag of worms'

A varicocele is characterized by an accumulation of enlarged veins within the scrotum, resembling a "bag of worms" during physical examination. This description effectively conveys the texture and appearance of the affected veins, which are usually soft and squishy to the touch. Varicoceles typically cause the scrotum to feel irregular, with the veins feeling prominent and tortuous. In contrast, the other options describe different conditions or abnormalities. A firm lump may indicate a testicular mass or growth that is solid, while a hard mass may suggest a distinct pathology, such as a testicular tumor. A swollen testicle can be the result of various conditions, including infections or trauma, and does not specifically describe the characteristic feel of a varicocele. Therefore, the presentation of a varicocele as a 'soft bag of worms' accurately represents the clinical finding and helps differentiate it from other testicular conditions encountered during an advanced health assessment.