-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
reproductive system
epididymitis
diagnoses

definition and etiology

definition:
Infection of the epididymis.

etiology:
Epididymitis is typically secondary to infection of the urethra or prostate. The microorganisms usually involved in sexually active men under the age of 30 are C. trachomatis (70-80%) and Neisseria gonorrhea (10%), while in older men or following catheterization the associated microorganism is usually Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

signs and symptoms

signs and symptoms:
Although it can be bilateral, epididymitis is usually unilateral.

In men less than 35 years old:
• Urethritis with discharge.
• Fever.
• Pain in the scrotum.
• Swelling, tenderness and induration of the scrotum.
• History of recent mumps parotitis.

In older men:
• Pyuria.
• Infected urine.
• History of a urinary procedure.
• Preceding urologic conditions e.g. BPH
• No urethral symptoms.

lab findings:
• Culture and/or stain of urethral discharge.

course and prognosis

Conventional treatment is antibiotics, and bed rest. Prognosis is usually good; however, if the mumps caused bilateral testicular atrophy, then sterility is common. In chronic cases, vasectomy or epididymectomy are conventional treatments.

differential diagnosis

• Testicular torsion.
• Trauma.
• Tumor.


footnotes