Acute epididymo-orchitis
Acute primary infection of the epididymis and the testis.
Normally under 40 years.
Male
The most common causes are N. gonococcus, Chlamydia trachomatis, E. coli and other gram-negative bacilli. Orchitis is also an important complication of mumps. TB is an important differential. The infection starts in the lower genital tract either as a sexually transmitted infection or as a urinary tract infection. Resolution is usually accompanied by healing and scarring, there may be permanent damage to the tubules risking infertility.
Patients present with a greatly enlarged and very tender testis, the pain usually comes on quickly (30–60 minutes) and is sometimes released by supporting the scrotum. Other causes of a painful scrotal swelling are shown in Table 6.14.
On examination the swelling is confined to one side and the swelling is hot and very tender.
There is extensive infiltration of the seminiferous tubules and interstitium with neutrophils, initial oedema is considerable and there is often patchy haemorrhage.
Infertility is an important complication.
Urine (first catch is best, rather than MSU, under these circumstances) and any urethral discharge should be cultured.
Treatment is with antibiotics, bed rest and scrotal support. In young adults, erythromycin (to cover Chlamydia) is probably best, whereas in older individuals or where there is a good history of UTI, suggested antibiotics are the same as those for UTI, e.g. trimethoprim.
Related Topics
Privacy Policy, Terms and Conditions, DMCA Policy and Compliant
Copyright © 2018-2023 BrainKart.com; All Rights Reserved. Developed by Therithal info, Chennai.