Acute Conditions of Tetis and Scrotum
What are the acute conditions of testis?
Acute Epididymitis: Inflammation of epididymis which is situated at the back of the testis. It produces swelling, pain and tenderness in the testis and epididymis. There may be associated discharge from the penis and blood in the semen. The most common cause of epididymitis is urinary tract infection and sexually transmitted diseases. Antibiotics usually relieve the symptoms.
Torsion of testis: Torsion is a condition when testis twists within the scrotum which may completely cut off blood supply to that testis. It is an emergency and should be corrected surgically. It is commonly seen in adolescents but can present at any age.
Testicular cancer: Although cancerous growth may be silent it can present as sudden testicular pain or swelling. (Please see in the testicular cancer section)
Injury to testis: Direct injury to the testis
Other conditions of testis and scrotum: Testis is covered by 2 layers of membranes called tunica vaginalis with a fluid-filled space in between these 2 layers to allow frictionless movement of the testis.
Hydrocele: Excessive collection of fluid in the tunica vaginalis space. In most of the cases the exact cause is not known.
Varicocele: Varicosity of veins in the spermatic cord which may interfere with temperature regulation of the testis leading to impairment of spermatogenesis.
Haematocele: Blood around the testis
Pyocele: Pus around the testis
Investigations: Ultrasound of the testis is a valuable investigation in the management of testicular symptoms. Other investigations may include ultrasound of kidneys and bladder.