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{{Short description|Sac of skin that protects the testicles}}
{{For|the obsolete dinosaur fossil name|Megalosaurus#"Scrotum humanum"}} {{For|the obsolete dinosaur fossil name|Megalosaurus#"Scrotum humanum"}}
{{pp-move-vandalism|small=yes}} {{Pp-move}}
{{Pp-pc|small=yes}}

{{Infobox anatomy {{Infobox anatomy
| Name = Scrotum | Name = Scrotum
| Latin = Scrotum | Latin = scrotum
| Image = File:Scrotum - Hodensack.JPG
| GraySubject = 258
| Caption = A human's scrotum in a relaxed state (left) and a tense state (right)
| GrayPage = 1237
| Image = File:HQ SAM ST2.jpg | Width =
| Image2 =
| Caption = Human scrotum in a relaxed state (left) and a tense state (right)
| Width = | Caption2 =
| Precursor = ]s
| ImageMap =
| System =]
| MapCaption =
| Artery = ], ], ], ], ]
| Precursor = ]
| Vein = ], ]
| System =
| Nerve = ], ], ], ], ], ]
| Artery = ] & ]
| Vein = ]
| Nerve = ], ], ], ]
| Lymph = ] | Lymph = ]
| MeshName = Scrotum
| MeshNumber = A05.360.444.661
| Code =
| Dorlands = s_06
| DorlandsID = 12726162
}} }}
The '''scrotum''' is a Kevin Schipani. One testis is typically lower than the other, which functions to avoid compression in the event of impact.<ref name=Bogaert1997>Anthony F.Bogaert, "", ''Human Reproduction'' vol.12 no.1 pp.68–72, 1997. {{PMID|9043905}}.</ref> The ] is a small, vertical, slightly raised ridge of scrotal skin under which is found the scrotal septum. It appears as a thin longitudinal line that runs front to back over the entire scrotum. The scrotum contains the ], ], ] and ]. It is a distention of the ] and carries some abdominal tissues into its cavity including the testicular artery, testicular vein and pampiniform plexus. In humans and some other mammals, the scrotum becomes covered with ] at ]. The scrotum will usually tighten during penile erection and when exposed to cold temperature.


In most terrestrial ]s, the '''scrotum''' ({{plural form}}: '''scrotums''' or '''scrota'''; possibly from ] ''scortum'', meaning "hide" or "skin")<ref>{{cite book|last=van Driel|first=Mels|title=Manhood: The Rise and Fall of the Penis|publisher=Reaktion Books|year = 2010|page=11|access-date=October 14, 2023|isbn= 978-1-86189-708-4 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=jt6u0CeVmAoC&dq=%E2%80%9Cscrotum%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Cskin%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Chide%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9CLatin%E2%80%9D&pg=PA11}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|last=Spiegl|first=Fritz|title=Fritz Spiegl's Sick Notes: An Alphabetical Browsing-Book of Derivatives, Abbreviations, Mnemonics and Slang for Amusement and Edification of Medics, Nurses, Patients and Hypochondriacs|publisher=Taylor & Francis|year = 1996|page=142|access-date=October 14, 2023|isbn= 978-1-85070-627-4 |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=_CbA5a0u5E0C&dq=%E2%80%9Cscrotum%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Cskin%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Chide%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9CLatin%E2%80%9D+%E2%80%9Cscortum%E2%80%9D&pg=PA142}}</ref> or '''scrotal sac''' is a part of the external male ] located at the base of the ]. It consists of a sac of ] containing the ], ]s, ], and ]. The scrotum will usually tighten when exposed to cold temperatures.
The scrotum is biologically ] to the ] in females. Although present in most mammals, the external scrotum is absent in streamlined ], such as whales and seals, as well as in some lineages of land mammals, such as the ]ns, ]ns, and numerous families of ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite web|title=Scrotum|url=https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002296.htm|work=National Institutes of Health|accessdate=6 January 2011}}</ref><ref>Lovegrove, B.G. 2015. "" Journal of Evolutionary Biology. 27(5):801-814. doi: 10.1111/jeb.12373</ref>

The scrotum ] the ] in females.


== Structure == == Structure ==
]
In regards to humans, the scrotum is a suspended dual-chambered sac of ] and ] containing the testicles and the lower part of the ]s. It is located behind the ] and above the ]. The ] is a small, vertical ridge of skin that expands from the ] and runs through the middle of the scrotum front to back. The scrotum is also a distention of the perineum and carries some abdominal tissues into its cavity including the ], ], and ].


=== Innervation === ===Nerve supply===


{| class="wikitable sortable" {| class="wikitable sortable"
|- |-
! Nerve !! Surface<ref>{{cite book|last=Moore|first=Keith|title=Essential Clinical Anatomy, Third Edition|year=2007|publisher=Lippincott Williams & Wilkins|isbn=0-7817-6274-X|page=132|author2=Anne Agur }}</ref> ! Nerve !! Surface<ref>{{cite book|last=Moore|first=Keith|title=Essential Clinical Anatomy, Third Edition|year=2007|publisher=Lippincott Williams & Wilkins|isbn=978-0-7817-6274-8|page=132|author2=Anne Agur }}</ref>
|- |-
| ] || anterolateral | ] || anterolateral
Line 42: Line 39:
| ] (from ]) || posterior | ] (from ]) || posterior
|- |-
| ] || inferior | ] || inferior
|} |}


=== Blood supply === === Blood supply ===

{| class="wikitable sortable" {| class="wikitable sortable"
|- |-
! Blood vessels{{sfn|Elson|1977|p=}} !! ! Blood vessels{{sfn|Elson|Kapit|1977|p=}} !!
|- |-
| ] || | ] || originates from the ]<ref>{{NormanAnatomy|antthigh}}</ref>
|- |-
| ] || | ] ||
Line 59: Line 55:
|} |}


=== Integument === ===Skin and glands===
* ]
* ]
* ]


The skin on the scrotum is more highly pigmented in comparison to the rest of the body. The ] is a connective tissue membrane dividing the scrotum into two cavities.<ref>{{cite web
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Skin associated tissues {{sfn|Elson|1977|p=}} !!
|-
| ] ||
|-
| ] ||
|-
| ] ||
|-
| ] ||
|-
|}

The skin on the scrotum is more highly pigmented compared to the rest of the body. The septum is a connective tissue membrane dividing the scrotum into two cavities.
<ref>{{cite web
| title = Scrotum | publisher = Encyclopædia Britannica | title = Scrotum | publisher = Encyclopædia Britannica
| url = http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/530078/scrotum | url = http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/530078/scrotum
| accessdate = 2015-02-24 | access-date = 2015-02-24
}} }}
</ref> </ref>


=== Lymphatic system === === Lymphatic system ===
The scrotum lymph drains initially into the superficial inguinal lymph nodes, this then drains into the deep inguinal lymph nodes. The deep inguinal lymph nodes drain into the common iliac which ultimately releases lymph into the cisterna chyli. The scrotal lymph initially drains into the superficial inguinal lymph nodes, this then drains into the deep inguinal lymph nodes. The deep inguinal lymph nodes channel into the common iliac, which ultimately releases lymph into the cisterna chyli.
{| class="wikitable sortable" {| class="wikitable sortable"
|- |-
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| title = VIII. The Lymphatic System. 5. The Lymphatics of the Lower Extremity. Gray, Henry. 1918. Anatomy of the Human Body. | title = VIII. The Lymphatic System. 5. The Lymphatics of the Lower Extremity. Gray, Henry. 1918. Anatomy of the Human Body.
| url = http://www.bartleby.com/107/179.html | url = http://www.bartleby.com/107/179.html
| accessdate = 2015-02-24 | access-date = 2015-02-24
}} }}


</ref>!! </ref>!!
|- |-
| ] || | ] ||
|-
| ] ||
|- |-
| ] || | ] ||
|- |-
|} |}

== Development ==
] ]]
{{main article|Development of the reproductive system}}

===Genital homology between sexes===
{{Main article|List of homologues of the human reproductive system|l1=Sexual homology}}

Male sex hormones are secreted by the testes later in embryonic life to cause the development of secondary sex organs. The scrotum is developmentally homologous to the ] and ]. The raphe does not exist in females. Reproductive organs and tissues develop in females and males begin during the fifth week after fertilization. The gonadal ridge grows behind the peritoneal membrane. By the sixth week, string-like tissues called primary sex cords form within the enlarging gonadal ridge. Externally, a swelling called the genital tubercule appears over the cloacal membrane.

Up until the eighth week after fertilization, the reproductive organs do not appear to be different between the male and female and are called in-differentiated. Testosterone secretion starts during week eight, reaches peak levels during week 13 and eventually declines to very low levels by the end of the second trimester. The testosterone causes the masculinization of the labioscrotal folds into the scrotum. The scrotal raphe is formed when the embryonic, urethral groove closes by week 12.{{sfn|Van de Graaff|1989|p=927-931}}


=== Asymmetry === === Asymmetry ===
One testis is typically lower than the other, which is believed to function to avoid compression in the event of impact; in humans, the left testis is typically lower than the right.<ref>{{cite journal | last1 = Bogaert | first1= Anthony F. | year = 1997 | title = Genital asymmetry in men | url = http://www.hawaii.edu/hivandaids/Genital_Asymmentry_in_Men.pdf | journal = Human Reproduction | volume = 12 | issue = 1 | pages = 68–72 | pmid = 9043905 | doi = 10.1093/humrep/12.1.68 | doi-access = free | access-date = 2015-06-29 | archive-date= 2015-05-28 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150528142617/http://www.hawaii.edu/hivandaids/Genital_Asymmentry_in_Men.pdf | url-status = dead }}</ref> An alternative view is that testis descent asymmetry evolved to enable more effective cooling of the testicles.<ref>{{Cite journal | doi=10.1177/147470490900700402|title = On the Origin of Descended Scrotal Testicles: The Activation Hypothesis| journal=Evolutionary Psychology| volume=7| issue=4| pages=147470490900700|year = 2009|last1 = Gallup|first1 = Gordon G.| last2=Finn| first2=Mary M.| last3=Sammis| first3=Becky| doi-access=free}}</ref>
One testis is typically lower than the other, which is believed to function to avoid compression in the event of impact; in humans, the left testis is typically lower than the right.<ref name=Bogaert1997/>
An alternative view is that testis descent asymmetry evolved to enable more effective cooling of the testicles.<ref>Gallup, G. G., Jr., Finn, M. M., & Sammis, B. "On the origin of descended scrotal testicles: The activation hypothesis.'', Evolutionary Psychology, 7, 2009, p. 517-524.</ref>

===Scrotal growth and puberty===
Though the testes and scrotum form early in embryonic life, sexual maturation begins upon entering ]. The increased secretion of testosterone causes the darkening of the skin and development of pubic hair on the scrotum.{{sfn|Van de Graaff|1989|p=935}}


== Internal structure == === Internal structure ===
]


Additional tissues and organs reside inside the scrotum and are described in more detail in the following articles: Additional tissues and organs reside inside the scrotum and are described in more detail in the following articles:
{{div col|colwidth=13em}} {{div col|colwidth=13em}}
* ] * ]
* ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
Line 141: Line 108:
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]
* ]
* ] * ]
* ] * ]


{{div col end}} {{div col end}}

== Development ==
{{main|Development of the reproductive system}}
] from ''indifferent'' to both sexes - male on left]]
During the fifth week after fertilization, the ] grows behind the peritoneal membrane. By the sixth week, string-like tissues called primary sex cords form within the enlarging genital ridge. Externally, a swelling called the genital tubercule appears over the cloacal membrane.

] secretion starts during week eight, reaches peak levels during week 13 and eventually declines to very low levels by the end of the second trimester. The testosterone causes the masculinization of the ] into the scrotum. The ] is formed when the embryonic, urethral groove closes by week 12.{{sfn|Van De Graaff|Fox|1989|pp=927-931}}

===Scrotal growth and puberty===
Though the testes and scrotum form early in embryonic life, sexual maturation begins upon entering ]. The increased secretion of testosterone causes the darkening of the skin and development of ] on the scrotum.{{sfn|Van De Graaff|Fox|1989|p=935}}


== Function == == Function ==
The scrotum regulates the temperature of the testicles and maintains it at {{convert|35 |C|F|abbr=off}}, i.e. two or three degrees below the body temperature of {{convert|37|C|F|abbr=off}}. Higher temperatures affect ].{{sfn|Van De Graaff|Fox|1989|p=936}} Temperature control is accomplished by the ]s of the scrotum moving the testicles either closer to or further away from the abdomen dependent upon the ambient temperature. This is accomplished by the ] in the abdomen and the ] (muscular tissue under the skin that makes the scrotum appear wrinkly).{{sfn|Van De Graaff|Fox|1989|p=935}}
]


During ], the scrotum will also tighten and thicken in the course of ].<ref>{{cite book|last=Jequier|first=Anne M.|publisher= Wiley|year=2008|title= Male Infertility: A Guide for the Clinician |page=180|isbn= 978-0-47069-526-5 |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=R5iy5aEdr8QC&pg=PA180}}</ref>
The scrotum regulates the temperature of the testes and maintains it at 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit), i.e. two degrees below the body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Higher temperatures affect ]{{sfn|Van de Graaff|1989|p=936}} Temperature control is accomplished by the ]s of the scrotum moving the testicles either closer to or further away from the abdomen dependent upon the ambient temperature. This is accomplished by the ] in the abdomen and the ] fascia (muscular tissue under the skin).{{sfn|Van de Graaff|1989|p=935}}


Having the scrotum and testicles situated outside the abdominal cavity may provide additional advantages. The external scrotum is not affected by abdominal pressure. This may prevent the emptying of the testes before the sperm were matured sufficiently for fertilization.{{sfn|Van De Graaff|Fox|1989|p=936}} Another advantage is it protects the testes from jolts and compressions associated with an active lifestyle. The scrotum may provide some friction during intercourse, helping to enhance the activity.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Jones|first1=Richard|title=Human Reproductive Biology|date=2013|publisher=]|page=74|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=M4kEdSnS-pkC&pg=PA74|quote=The rear-entry position of mating may allow the scrotum to stimulate the clitoris and, in this way, may produce an orgasm ...|isbn=9780123821850}}</ref> The scrotum is also considered to be an ].<ref>{{cite book|last=Redmon|first=George L.|publisher=Kensington Publishing Corporation|year=2002|title= Sensual for Life|page=176|isbn=978-0-75820-138-6|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=Ny2bBzKgX6YC&pg=PA176}}</ref>
] has been opened; on the right side only the layers superficial to the ] have been removed.]]


== Society and culture ==
Having the scrotum and testicles situated outside the abdominal cavity may provide additional advantages. The external scrotum is not affected by abdominal pressure. This may prevent the emptying of the testes before the sperm were matured sufficiently for fertilization.{{sfn|Van de Graaff|1989|p=936}} Another advantage is it protects the testes from jolts and compressions associated with an active lifestyle. Animals that have stately movements – such as ]s, ]s, and ]s – have internal testes and no scrotum.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg15120432.000-science--bumpy-lifestyle-led-to-external-testes.html |title=Science : Bumpy lifestyle led to external testes - 17 August 1996 - New Scientist |accessdate=2007-11-06 |work=New Scientist}}</ref> Unlike placental mammals, male ] have a scrotum that is anterior to the penis.<ref name="Tyndale-BiscoeRenfree1987">{{cite book|author1=Hugh Tyndale-Biscoe|author2=Marilyn Renfree|title=Reproductive Physiology of Marsupials|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HpjovN0vXW4C&printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&q=scrotum&f=false|date=30 January 1987|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=978-0-521-33792-2}}</ref><ref name="Hyman1992">{{cite book|author=Libbie Henrietta Hyman|title=Hyman's Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=VKlWjdOkiMwC&pg=PA583#v=onepage&q=scrotum&f=false|date=15 September 1992|publisher=University of Chicago Press|isbn=978-0-226-87013-7|pages=583–}}</ref><ref name="JonesDickman2003">{{cite book|author1=Menna Jones|author2=Chris R. Dickman|author3=Michael Archer|title=Predators with Pouches: The Biology of Carnivorous Marsupials|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3YQSDiWHfD0C&printsec=frontcover#v=onepage&q=scrotum&f=false|year=2003|publisher=Csiro Publishing|isbn=978-0-643-06634-2}}</ref> In some sex positions, such as ] the scrotum may provide friction for the ], and may subsequently serve as an impetus for ] or orgasm in the woman.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Jones|first1=Richard|title=Human Reproductive Biology|date=2013|publisher=]|page=74|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=M4kEdSnS-pkC&pg=PA74&dq=&hl=en&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwiglL3NksnSAhWjIcAKHcziCCEQ6AEIHDAA#v=onepage&q=&f=false|quote=The rear-entry position of mating may allow the scrotum to stimulate the clitoris and, in this way, may produce an orgasm ...}}</ref>

Common slang terms for the scrotum are ''ballsack'', ''nutsack'', and ''teabag''.

Some men will get a ] on the skin of the scrotum, any of which is called a ] (e.g., scrotal ladder). Side-to-side or front-to-back piercings that pass through the scrotum are known as ]s.

] is a ] that creates a scrotum for ] using tissue from the labia majora, or a ] that repairs or reconstructs the scrotum.

== Other animals ==
A scrotum is present in all ]n land mammals except ]es, ]es, ]s, ], ]s, ]s, and numerous families of ]s and ]s.<ref name="cool">{{Cite journal | doi=10.1111/jeb.12373| pmid=24735476|title = Cool sperm: Why some placental mammals have a scrotum| journal=Journal of Evolutionary Biology| volume=27| issue=5| pages=801–814|year = 2014|last1 = Lovegrove|first1 = B. G.| s2cid=24332311| doi-access=free}}</ref> The ] is separated from the scrotum by the ] in these mammals. The testicles remain in the body cavity in all other vertebrates, including ]l animals.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg15120432.000-science--bumpy-lifestyle-led-to-external-testes.html |title=Science : Bumpy lifestyle led to external testes - 17 August 1996 - New Scientist |access-date=2007-11-06 |work=New Scientist}}</ref>

Unlike ], some male ] have a scrotum that is anterior to the penis,<ref name="Tyndale-BiscoeRenfree1987">{{cite book|author1=Hugh Tyndale-Biscoe|author2=Marilyn Renfree|title=Reproductive Physiology of Marsupials|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=HpjovN0vXW4C&q=scrotum|date=30 January 1987|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=978-0-521-33792-2}}</ref><ref name="Hyman1992">{{cite book|author=Libbie Henrietta Hyman|title=Hyman's Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=VKlWjdOkiMwC&q=scrotum&pg=PA583|date=15 September 1992|publisher=University of Chicago Press|isbn=978-0-226-87013-7|pages=583–}}</ref><ref name="JonesDickman2003">{{cite book|author1=Menna Jones|author2=Chris R. Dickman|author3=Michael Archer|title=Predators with Pouches: The Biology of Carnivorous Marsupials|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=3YQSDiWHfD0C&q=scrotum|year=2003|publisher=Csiro Publishing|isbn=978-0-643-06634-2}}</ref><ref name="SaundersHinds1997">{{cite book|author1=Norman Saunders|author2=Lyn Hinds|title=Marsupial Biology: Recent Research, New Perspectives|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FnfVl7MX4YMC&q=scrotum|year=1997|publisher=UNSW Press|isbn=978-0-86840-311-3}}</ref> which is not homologous to the scrotum of placentals,<ref name="ArmatiDickman2006">{{cite book|author1=Patricia J. Armati|author2=Chris R. Dickman|author3=Ian D. Hume|title=Marsupials|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=x3S5v971Nk0C&q=scrotum|date=17 August 2006|publisher=Cambridge University Press|isbn=978-1-139-45742-2}}</ref> although there are several marsupial species without an external scrotum.<ref name="Tyndale-Biscoe2005">{{cite book|author=C. Hugh Tyndale-Biscoe|title=Life of Marsupials|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=KqtlPZJ9y8EC&q=scrotum|year=2005|publisher=Csiro Publishing|isbn=978-0-643-06257-3}}</ref>

The scrotum is also absent in ]s, such as ]s, ]s, and ]s,<ref name="PerrinWürsig2009">{{cite book|author1=William F. Perrin|author2=Bernd Würsig|author3=J.G.M. Thewissen|title=Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=2rkHQpToi9sC&q=scrotum|date=26 February 2009|publisher=Academic Press|isbn=978-0-08-091993-5}}</ref> as well as in lineages of other land mammals, such as the ]ns (]s, ]s, etc.), ]ns (]s, ]s, and ]s),<ref>{{cite web|title=Scrotum|url=https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002296.htm|work=National Institutes of Health|access-date=6 January 2011}}</ref><ref name="cool"/> and ].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Griffiths |first=Mervyn |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=W7nu16_DkTgC&dq=scrotum&pg=PA41 |title=The Biology of the Monotremes |date=2012-12-02 |publisher=Elsevier |isbn=978-0-323-15331-7 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Hayssen |first1=Virginia |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=wQE2DwAAQBAJ&pg=PA32 |title=Reproduction in Mammals: The Female Perspective |last2=Orr |first2=Teri J. |date=2017-10-27 |publisher=JHU Press |isbn=978-1-4214-2315-9 |language=en}}</ref>
<gallery mode="packed">
Testicular of a bulldog cow Hoden eines Ochsen Venezuela P1140356.JPG|Scrotum of a ]
File:Male-kangaroo.jpg|Scrotum of a ]
Red deer testicles.jpg|Scrotum of a ]
Jaguar 7374 (5000551901).jpg|Scrotum of a ]
Camel's Testicles (3953363864).jpg|Scrotum of a ]
Chlorocebus-pygerythrus-private-parts.JPG|Scrotum of a ]
File:Giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) male genitals covered with ticks ... (51125861810).jpg|Scrotum of a ]
</gallery>


== Clinical significance == == Clinical significance ==


A study has indicated that use of a laptop computer positioned on the lap can negatively affect sperm production.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/4078895.stm |title=Laptops may damage male fertility |publisher=BBC News |date=2004-12-09 |accessdate=2012-01-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|last=Sheynkin|first=Yefim|title=Increase in scrotal temperature in laptop computer users|journal=Hum. Reprod.|date=February 2005|volume=20|issue=2|pages=452–455|doi=10.1093/humrep/deh616|pmid=15591087|url=http://humrep.oxfordjournals.org/content/20/2/452.short |display-authors=etal}}</ref> A study has indicated that use of a laptop computer positioned on the lap can negatively affect sperm production.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/4078895.stm |title=Laptops may damage male fertility |work=BBC News |date=2004-12-09 |access-date=2012-01-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite journal|last=Sheynkin|first=Yefim|title=Increase in scrotal temperature in laptop computer users|journal=Hum. Reprod.|date=February 2005|volume=20|issue=2|pages=452–455|doi=10.1093/humrep/deh616|pmid=15591087|display-authors=etal|doi-access=free}}</ref>


== Diseases and conditions == === Diseases and conditions ===


The scrotum and its contents can develop diseases or incur injuries. These include: The scrotum and its contents can develop many diseases and can incur injuries. These include:
{{div col|colwidth=13em}} {{div col|colwidth=13em}}
*] (yeast infection) *] (yeast infection)
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
*Paget's disease of the scrotum<ref> *Paget's disease of the scrotum<ref>
{{cite web {{cite web
| title = Paget's disease of the scrotum Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatments and Causes|publisher= RightDiagnosis.com | title = Paget's disease of the scrotum Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatments and Causes|publisher= RightDiagnosis.com
| url = http://www.rightdiagnosis.com/p/pagets_disease_of_the_scrotum/intro.htm | url = http://www.rightdiagnosis.com/p/pagets_disease_of_the_scrotum/intro.htm
| accessdate = 2015-02-24 | access-date = 2015-02-24
}} }}
</ref> </ref>
*] - enlargement of the pampiniform venous complex
*]
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
*] - irritation of the scrotum (itchiness)
*]
*] - ]
*]
*] *]
*] *]
*] *]
*] - swollen scrotum caused by a lymphatic obstruction
*]
*] *]
*] *]
*] - sexually transmitted infection
*]
*]
* ] ('']'')
* ] ('']'') - sexually transmitted infection
* ] ('']'')
* ] ('']'') - sexually transmitted infection
* ] ('']'')
* ] ('']'') - sexually transmitted infection
* ] or ('']'') * ] or ('']'')
* ] ('']'') * ] ('']'') - sexually transmitted infection
* scrotum eczema<ref> * Scrotal eczema
* Scrotal psoriasis disease
{{cite web| ref=TCMWell
* Riboflavin deficiency
| title = Common scrotal skin diseases|publisher= TCMWell
* ] (scrotal cancer)

| url = http://tcmwell.com/TCMAndLife/TCMMale/Common-scrotal-skin-diseases.html
| accessdate = 2015-02-24
}}
</ref>
* scrotal psoriasis disease{{sfn|TCMwell|}}
* Riboflavin deficiency{{sfn|TCMwell|}}


{{div col end}} {{div col end}}
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== See also == == See also ==
{{Anatomy-terms}} {{Anatomy-terms}}
{{Portal|Anatomy}}
* ]
* ], a temporary form of body modification * ], a temporary form of body modification
* ]
* ]
* ] * ]


== Bibliography == == Bibliography ==

; Books ; Books
* {{Grays}} * {{Grays}}
* {{cite book|ref=vandegraaff|last1=Van De Graaff|first1=Kent M. |last2=Fox |first2=Stuart Ira|title=Concepts of Human Anatomy and Physiology|date=1989|publisher=William C. Brown Publishers|location=Dubuque, Iowa|others= |isbn=0697056759|page=}} * {{cite book |last1=Van De Graaff|first1=Kent M.|last2=Fox|first2=Stuart Ira|title=Concepts of Human Anatomy and Physiology|date=1989|publisher=William C. Brown Publishers|location=Dubuque, Iowa|isbn=978-0697056757|url=https://archive.org/details/conceptsofhumana00vand}}
* {{cite book|ref=Elson|last1= Elson|first1=Lawrence |last2=Kapit |first2=Wynn|title=The Anatomy Coloring|date=1977|publisher=Harper & Row |location=New York, New York|others= |isbn=0064539148|page=}} * {{cite book |last1=Elson|first1=Lawrence|last2=Kapit|first2=Wynn|title=The Anatomy Coloring Book |date=1977|publisher=Harper & Row|location=New York |isbn=978-0064539142|url=https://archive.org/details/anatomycoloringb00kapi}}
*{{cite web| ref=UnivMi | title = Gross Anatomy Image |series= Medical Gross Anatomy Atlas Images|publisher= University of Michigan Medical School|date=1997| url=http://www.med.umich.edu/lrc/coursepages/m1/anatomy2010/html/atlas/abdo_wall63.html# |accessdate = 2015-02-23 * {{cite web| ref=UnivMi | title = Gross Anatomy Image |series= Medical Gross Anatomy Atlas Images|publisher= University of Michigan Medical School|date=1997| url=http://www.med.umich.edu/lrc/coursepages/m1/anatomy2010/html/atlas/abdo_wall63.html# |access-date = 2015-02-23 }}
* {{cite book |ref=merckmanual |last1=Berkow |first1=Robert |title=The Merck Manual of Medical Information; Home Edition |date=1977 |publisher=Merck Research Laboratories |location=Whitehouse Station, New Jersey |isbn=978-0911910872 |url=https://archive.org/details/merckmanualofmed00berk}}
}}
* {{cite book|ref=merckmanual|last1= Berkow, MD, editor|first1=Robert |title=The Merck Manual of Medical Information; Home Edition|date=1977|publisher=Merck Research Laboratories |location=Whitehouse Station, New Jersey|isbn=0911910875|page=}}
<!-- <nowiki>{{sfn|merckmanual|1977|p=}}</nowiki> <!-- <nowiki>{{sfn|merckmanual|1977|p=}}</nowiki>
<nowiki>{{sfn|Elson|1977|p=}}</nowiki> <nowiki>{{sfn|Elson|1977|p=}}</nowiki>
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== References == == References ==
{{Reflist|2}}
{{commons category|Scrotum}}

{{reflist|2}}
== External links ==
* {{Commons category inline|Scrotums}}

{{Human regional anatomy}}
{{Male reproductive system|state=collapsed}} {{Male reproductive system|state=collapsed}}
{{Sex}} {{Sex}}
{{Authority control}}


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Latest revision as of 12:24, 11 January 2025

Sac of skin that protects the testicles For the obsolete dinosaur fossil name, see Megalosaurus § "Scrotum humanum".

Scrotum
A human's scrotum in a relaxed state (left) and a tense state (right)
Details
PrecursorLabioscrotal swellings
SystemReproductive system
ArteryAnterior scrotal artery, posterior scrotal artery, deep external pudendal artery, superficial external pudendal artery, internal pudendal artery
VeinPosterior scrotal veins, internal pudendal veins
NervePosterior scrotal nerves, anterior scrotal nerves, genital branch of genitofemoral nerve, perineal branches of posterior femoral cutaneous nerve, pudendal nerve, perineal nerve
LymphSuperficial inguinal lymph nodes
Identifiers
Latinscrotum
MeSHD012611
TA98A09.4.03.001
A09.4.03.004
TA23693
FMA18252
Anatomical terminology[edit on Wikidata]

In most terrestrial mammals, the scrotum (pl.: scrotums or scrota; possibly from Latin scortum, meaning "hide" or "skin") or scrotal sac is a part of the external male genitalia located at the base of the penis. It consists of a sac of skin containing the external spermatic fascia, testicles, epididymides, and vasa deferentia. The scrotum will usually tighten when exposed to cold temperatures.

The scrotum is homologous to the labia majora in females.

Structure

Diagram of the scrotum. On the left side, the cavity of the tunica vaginalis has been opened; on the right side, only the layers superficial to the cremaster muscle have been removed.

In regards to humans, the scrotum is a suspended dual-chambered sac of skin and muscular tissue containing the testicles and the lower part of the spermatic cords. It is located behind the penis and above the perineum. The perineal raphe is a small, vertical ridge of skin that expands from the anus and runs through the middle of the scrotum front to back. The scrotum is also a distention of the perineum and carries some abdominal tissues into its cavity including the testicular artery, testicular vein, and pampiniform plexus.

Nerve supply

Nerve Surface
Genital branch of genitofemoral nerve anterolateral
Anterior scrotal nerves (from ilioinguinal nerve) anterior
Posterior scrotal nerves (from perineal nerve) posterior
Perineal branches of posterior femoral cutaneous nerve inferior

Blood supply

Blood vessels
Anterior scrotal artery originates from the deep external pudendal artery
Posterior scrotal artery
Testicular artery

Skin and glands

The skin on the scrotum is more highly pigmented in comparison to the rest of the body. The septum is a connective tissue membrane dividing the scrotum into two cavities.

Lymphatic system

The scrotal lymph initially drains into the superficial inguinal lymph nodes, this then drains into the deep inguinal lymph nodes. The deep inguinal lymph nodes channel into the common iliac, which ultimately releases lymph into the cisterna chyli.

Lymphatic vessels
Superficial inguinal lymph nodes
Popliteal lymph nodes

Asymmetry

One testis is typically lower than the other, which is believed to function to avoid compression in the event of impact; in humans, the left testis is typically lower than the right. An alternative view is that testis descent asymmetry evolved to enable more effective cooling of the testicles.

Internal structure

Image showing musculature and inner workings of the scrotum

Additional tissues and organs reside inside the scrotum and are described in more detail in the following articles:

Development

Main article: Development of the reproductive system
Development of external genitals showing homologues from indifferent to both sexes - male on left

During the fifth week after fertilization, the genital ridge grows behind the peritoneal membrane. By the sixth week, string-like tissues called primary sex cords form within the enlarging genital ridge. Externally, a swelling called the genital tubercule appears over the cloacal membrane.

Testosterone secretion starts during week eight, reaches peak levels during week 13 and eventually declines to very low levels by the end of the second trimester. The testosterone causes the masculinization of the labioscrotal folds into the scrotum. The scrotal raphe is formed when the embryonic, urethral groove closes by week 12.

Scrotal growth and puberty

Though the testes and scrotum form early in embryonic life, sexual maturation begins upon entering puberty. The increased secretion of testosterone causes the darkening of the skin and development of pubic hair on the scrotum.

Function

The scrotum regulates the temperature of the testicles and maintains it at 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit), i.e. two or three degrees below the body temperature of 37 degrees Celsius (99 degrees Fahrenheit). Higher temperatures affect spermatogenesis. Temperature control is accomplished by the smooth muscles of the scrotum moving the testicles either closer to or further away from the abdomen dependent upon the ambient temperature. This is accomplished by the cremaster muscle in the abdomen and the dartos fascia (muscular tissue under the skin that makes the scrotum appear wrinkly).

During sexual arousal, the scrotum will also tighten and thicken in the course of penile erection.

Having the scrotum and testicles situated outside the abdominal cavity may provide additional advantages. The external scrotum is not affected by abdominal pressure. This may prevent the emptying of the testes before the sperm were matured sufficiently for fertilization. Another advantage is it protects the testes from jolts and compressions associated with an active lifestyle. The scrotum may provide some friction during intercourse, helping to enhance the activity. The scrotum is also considered to be an erogenous zone.

Society and culture

Common slang terms for the scrotum are ballsack, nutsack, and teabag.

Some men will get a piercing on the skin of the scrotum, any of which is called a hafada (e.g., scrotal ladder). Side-to-side or front-to-back piercings that pass through the scrotum are known as transscrotal piercings.

Scrotoplasty is a sex reassignment surgery that creates a scrotum for trans men using tissue from the labia majora, or a plastic surgery that repairs or reconstructs the scrotum.

Other animals

A scrotum is present in all boreoeutherian land mammals except hippopotamuses, rhinoceroses, hedgehogs, moles, pangolins, tapirs, and numerous families of bats and rodents. The anus is separated from the scrotum by the perineum in these mammals. The testicles remain in the body cavity in all other vertebrates, including cloacal animals.

Unlike placentals, some male marsupials have a scrotum that is anterior to the penis, which is not homologous to the scrotum of placentals, although there are several marsupial species without an external scrotum.

The scrotum is also absent in marine mammals, such as whales, dolphins, and seals, as well as in lineages of other land mammals, such as the afrotherians (elephants, aardvarks, etc.), xenarthrans (armadillos, anteaters, and sloths), and monotremes.

Clinical significance

A study has indicated that use of a laptop computer positioned on the lap can negatively affect sperm production.

Diseases and conditions

The scrotum and its contents can develop many diseases and can incur injuries. These include:

See also

This article uses anatomical terminology.

Bibliography

Books

References

  1. van Driel, Mels (2010). Manhood: The Rise and Fall of the Penis. Reaktion Books. p. 11. ISBN 978-1-86189-708-4. Retrieved October 14, 2023.
  2. Spiegl, Fritz (1996). Fritz Spiegl's Sick Notes: An Alphabetical Browsing-Book of Derivatives, Abbreviations, Mnemonics and Slang for Amusement and Edification of Medics, Nurses, Patients and Hypochondriacs. Taylor & Francis. p. 142. ISBN 978-1-85070-627-4. Retrieved October 14, 2023.
  3. Moore, Keith; Anne Agur (2007). Essential Clinical Anatomy, Third Edition. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. p. 132. ISBN 978-0-7817-6274-8.
  4. Elson & Kapit 1977.
  5. antthigh at The Anatomy Lesson by Wesley Norman (Georgetown University)
  6. "Scrotum". Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved 2015-02-24.
  7. "VIII. The Lymphatic System. 5. The Lymphatics of the Lower Extremity. Gray, Henry. 1918. Anatomy of the Human Body". Retrieved 2015-02-24.
  8. Bogaert, Anthony F. (1997). "Genital asymmetry in men" (PDF). Human Reproduction. 12 (1): 68–72. doi:10.1093/humrep/12.1.68. PMID 9043905. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2015-05-28. Retrieved 2015-06-29.
  9. Gallup, Gordon G.; Finn, Mary M.; Sammis, Becky (2009). "On the Origin of Descended Scrotal Testicles: The Activation Hypothesis". Evolutionary Psychology. 7 (4): 147470490900700. doi:10.1177/147470490900700402.
  10. Van De Graaff & Fox 1989, pp. 927–931.
  11. ^ Van De Graaff & Fox 1989, p. 935.
  12. ^ Van De Graaff & Fox 1989, p. 936.
  13. Jequier, Anne M. (2008). Male Infertility: A Guide for the Clinician. Wiley. p. 180. ISBN 978-0-47069-526-5.
  14. Jones, Richard (2013). Human Reproductive Biology. Academic Press. p. 74. ISBN 9780123821850. The rear-entry position of mating may allow the scrotum to stimulate the clitoris and, in this way, may produce an orgasm ...
  15. Redmon, George L. (2002). Sensual for Life. Kensington Publishing Corporation. p. 176. ISBN 978-0-75820-138-6.
  16. ^ Lovegrove, B. G. (2014). "Cool sperm: Why some placental mammals have a scrotum". Journal of Evolutionary Biology. 27 (5): 801–814. doi:10.1111/jeb.12373. PMID 24735476. S2CID 24332311.
  17. "Science : Bumpy lifestyle led to external testes - 17 August 1996 - New Scientist". New Scientist. Retrieved 2007-11-06.
  18. Hugh Tyndale-Biscoe; Marilyn Renfree (30 January 1987). Reproductive Physiology of Marsupials. Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-0-521-33792-2.
  19. Libbie Henrietta Hyman (15 September 1992). Hyman's Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. University of Chicago Press. pp. 583–. ISBN 978-0-226-87013-7.
  20. Menna Jones; Chris R. Dickman; Michael Archer (2003). Predators with Pouches: The Biology of Carnivorous Marsupials. Csiro Publishing. ISBN 978-0-643-06634-2.
  21. Norman Saunders; Lyn Hinds (1997). Marsupial Biology: Recent Research, New Perspectives. UNSW Press. ISBN 978-0-86840-311-3.
  22. Patricia J. Armati; Chris R. Dickman; Ian D. Hume (17 August 2006). Marsupials. Cambridge University Press. ISBN 978-1-139-45742-2.
  23. C. Hugh Tyndale-Biscoe (2005). Life of Marsupials. Csiro Publishing. ISBN 978-0-643-06257-3.
  24. William F. Perrin; Bernd Würsig; J.G.M. Thewissen (26 February 2009). Encyclopedia of Marine Mammals. Academic Press. ISBN 978-0-08-091993-5.
  25. "Scrotum". National Institutes of Health. Retrieved 6 January 2011.
  26. Griffiths, Mervyn (2012-12-02). The Biology of the Monotremes. Elsevier. ISBN 978-0-323-15331-7.
  27. Hayssen, Virginia; Orr, Teri J. (2017-10-27). Reproduction in Mammals: The Female Perspective. JHU Press. ISBN 978-1-4214-2315-9.
  28. "Laptops may damage male fertility". BBC News. 2004-12-09. Retrieved 2012-01-30.
  29. Sheynkin, Yefim; et al. (February 2005). "Increase in scrotal temperature in laptop computer users". Hum. Reprod. 20 (2): 452–455. doi:10.1093/humrep/deh616. PMID 15591087.
  30. "Paget's disease of the scrotum Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatments and Causes". RightDiagnosis.com. Retrieved 2015-02-24.

External links

  • Media related to Scrotums at Wikimedia Commons
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