Physical Exam

Scrotal Transillumination

also known as Scrotal diaphanoscopy

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Video coming September 2026

How to Perform

With the patient standing and the genitals exposed, darken the room. Place a small, bright light source directly against the posterior or inferior surface of the testis or scrotal swelling and observe the swelling from the opposite side. The test is positive if light passes through the swelling, producing a diffuse red glow.

How to Interpret

This test’s findings are all below your current evidence filter.

References

Di Maggio C, Pescarini L, Talenti E, Lembo A, Guazzieri S. [Scrotum transillumination: method and results (author's transl)]. Radiol Med. 1981;67(10):733-7. PMID: 7323336. (Italian.) Named as closest available evidence only; does not anchor a tier.
Lin HC, Clark JY. Testicular teratoma presenting as a transilluminating scrotal mass. Urology. 2006;67(6):1290.e3-5. PMID: 16750249. Mahalik SK, et al. Transilluminating testicular mass. Indian J Med Paediatr Oncol. 2011;32(1):46-8. PMID: 21731217 (PMC3124991).
Di Maggio C, Pescarini L, Talenti E, Lembo A, Guazzieri S. [Scrotum transillumination: method and results (author's transl)]. Radiol Med. 1981;67(10):733-7. PMID: 7323336. (Italian.) Named as closest located work only; does not anchor a tier.
Bickley LS, Szilagyi PG, Hoffman RM, Soriano RP. Bates' Guide to Physical Examination and History Taking. 13th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer; 2021.
Swartz MH. Textbook of Physical Diagnosis: History and Examination. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2025.

Research last updated September 10, 2026.