Conditions our MRI scans have found

A serous cystadenoma of the pancreas is a non-cancerous abnormal tissue growth composed of numerous small cysts (sac-like pockets of membranous tissue that contains fluid) that appear in a honeycomb-like formation. The exact cause of serous cystadenomas is not well understood, however, it is possible that genetic mutations may contribute to formation.

The seminal vesicles are paired secretory glands located behind the bladder that produce semen. Cysts of the seminal vesicles are extremely uncommon and non-cancerous. While congenital cysts are usually found along with other genital/urinary anomalies, acquired cysts of the seminal vesicles are usually associated with prostate problems [i.e. chronic prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)] and recurring urinary tract infections. In symptomatic individuals, the usual complaints include perineal pain (pain in the area between the scrotum and the anus), abdominal pain, ejaculatory pain, and symptoms of a urinary tract infection (i.e. discomfort or burning with urination, blood in the urine, and increased urinary frequency). Treatment is necessary only if the cyst is causing symptoms, and may involve cyst removal.

Kidney cysts are common findings of small fluid sacs. Simple cysts are commonly observed in normal kidneys, with an increasing incidence as individuals age. They are benign (non-cancerous) lesions that do not cause symptoms and rarely require treatment. Typically, only one cyst occurs on the surface of a kidney, but multiple cysts can affect one or both kidneys.

Scrotoliths, also known as scrotal pearls, are benign (non-cancerous) calcifications (stones) within the scrotum (the small, muscular sac that contains and protects the testicles, blood vessels, and part of the spermatic cord). Although their exact cause is unclear, they are closely associated with chronic microtrauma to the scrotal region (e.g. from mountain biking, horseback riding) which causes damage to the tissues of the scrotum. Other risk factors include twisting of the epididymis (the long coiled tube that is above and behind the testicle and where sperm mature), twisting of the appendix testis (a small portion of normal tissue that is usually located on the upper portion of the testis), and having a hydrocele (a collection of fluid within the scrotum that directly surrounds the testes and the spermatic cord).

Seminal vesicle calculi (stones) are uncommon and their cause remains unclear. Individuals with such stones are usually between 30-45 years old and report a history of passing stones or grit during ejaculation, which is occasionally accompanied by pain, blood in the ejaculated fluids, or low ejaculation volume. Ejaculatory duct obstruction can occur in individuals with seminal vesicle stones and can result in infertility. Seminal vesicle calculi are generally corrected through surgical treatment as soon as possible after being identified, as they may become more painful and could potentially obstruct the seminal vesicles.

A schwannoma is an abnormal growth of the "nerve sheath" covering nerves. It can occur anywhere in the body at any age. Schwannomas are usually benign (non-cancerous), but rarely can become malignant (cancerous). Symptoms from a schwannoma, if any, depend on its location and size and include a lump that can be seen or felt, pain, muscle weakness, tingling, numbness, hearing problems and facial paralysis.