Orchitis is an inflammation of the testicles in a man. Inflammation of the epididymis that develops along the way is called epididymitis. Since these diseases usually appear together, inflammation of the testicles and their appendages is called epididymitis orchioepididymitis.
In the acute stage of orchiepididymitis, acute pain in the testicle is observed. The scrotum on the affected side is noticeably enlarged, the skin on it becomes shiny and stretched. Touching an inflamed testicle is very painful. A high temperature of up to 39 degrees, headache, nausea, and weakness develop.
Without treatment, this condition can last about 2 weeks, then become chronic. The temperature decreases, the pain decreases, but upon palpation a painful lump is detected. Purulent inflammation and obstruction of the testicular ducts may develop, which leads to infertility.
The causes of orchiepididymitis are most often infectious diseases of the genitourinary system, such as urethritis and prostatitis. Other causes may also be other infections, testicular trauma, or prostate surgery.
The diagnosis is made by an andrologist or urologist during examination and laboratory tests. An ultrasound scan of the scrotum is performed.
Treatment includes bed rest, scrotal elevation, diet, fluids, antibiotics, and physical therapy. In case of purulent complications, it may be necessary to open the abscess or remove the testicle.