Testis’ diseases – inflammation of the testicle
Epididymitis
Epididymitis is defined as the inflammation of the epididymis. It may be acute or chronic. Most often it due to an infection from the prostate, bladder, and urethra, where germs enter the ejaculatory resources and from there to the vas deferens and epididymis.
Causes:
- Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhea to men < 35 years
- E. coli to men > 35 years
- Cytomegalovirus at immunosuppressed patients.
Clinical image:
In acute epididymitis, fever (> 38 ) with accompanying intense shivering, pain, and swelling of the scrotum with reflection along the spermatic cord is observed. In many cases, there is redness of the scrotum’ skin and testicular involvement.
Apart from the above, urethral discharge may also be found, suggesting urethritis or even frequent/difficult urination, which shows probable prostate gland inflammation. During palpation, epididymis appears painful and swollen.
In chronic epididymitis, pain in the affected epididymis may be observed, characterized as aching with remissions and exacerbations. During palpation, epididymis is presented thickened and swollen.