Sunday, June 21, 2009

Testicle Pain (Testicular Torsion)

Testicular torsion

The acute scrotum presents as testicular pain or swelling. Testicular torsion represents a surgical emergency because the likelihood of testicular salvage diminishes with the duration of torsion. Testicular torsion must be quickly excluded in any patient.

The history and physical examination can significantly narrow the differential diagnosis of an acute scrotum, if not establish the exact cause. None of the conditions responsible for acute scrotal pain or swelling has a single pathognomonic finding, but the combined background information and physical findings frequently suggest the correct diagnosis of testicle pain.

The age of the patient is important. Testicular torsion is most common in neonates and postpubertal boys, although it can occur in males of any age. Schönlein-Henoch purpura and torsion of a testicular appendage typically occur in prepubertal boys, whereas epididymitis most often develops.

The onset and duration of pain must be carefully determined. Testicular torsion usually begins abruptly, as if a switch has been flipped. The pain is severe, and the patient often appears uncomfortable. Moderate pain developing gradually over a few days is more suggestive of epididymitis or appendiceal torsion. With either of these conditions, the patient may appear relatively comfortable.

The physician needs to be aware that an embarrassed child may state that he has lower abdominal or inguinal pain rather than scrotal.

A history of trauma does not exclude the diagnosis of testicular torsion. Scrotal trauma incurred during sports activities or rough, boisterous play often causes severe pain of short duration. Pain that persists for more than one hour after scrotal trauma.

Information should always be obtained about prior occurrence of pain. When asked, many patients with torsion.

Testicular torsion

OTHER RELATED INFORMATION

Please LIKE , Tweet , +1 and Share if you like this article...

No comments:

Post a Comment

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...