A Simple Guide to Epididymitis and Orchitis

A Simple Guide to Epididymitis and Orchitis
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What is Epididymitis and Orchitis?
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Epididymitis and orchitis is acute bacterial or viral infection of the epididymis and testis.

The epididymis is the small organ on top of the testis.


Who is affected by Epididymitis and Orchitis?
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1.childhood, usually related to mumps infection

2.sexually active males

3.Epididymitis is more common than Orchitis


What are the Causes of Epididymitis and Orchitis?
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Bacterial infections:

1.Gonorrhea

2.Chlamydia

3.staphylococcus aureus

4.Streptococcus

5.Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

6.E.coli

Viral infections:

1.mumps in childhood

2.measles


What are the complications of Epididymitis and Orchitis?
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1.Orchitis or infection of the testis following epididymitis

2.Abscess formation of the epididymis

3.gangrene of the testis if blood flow is affected.

4.inguinal lymphadenitis


What are the Symptoms and signs of Epididymitis and Orchitis?
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1.Pain in scrotum

2.ejaculation of blood

3.hematuria (blood in the urine)

4.Fever

Signs:

1.Scrotal swelling

2.Induration of scrotum wall

3.tenderness of epididymis

4.tenderness of the testis if orchitis is present


How is diagnosis of Epididymitis and Orchitis made?
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1.pain and tenderness of the epididymis and testis

2.Mid stream urine for culture

3.Blood tests( white cell count , blood culture)

4.Ultrasound of the testis


What is the treatment of Epididymitis and Orchitis?
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Acute Epididymitis and Orchitis

1. Antibiotics may be commenced if fever is high or the culture showed bacterial infections.

2.Fever and pain may be treated with paracetamol

3.Scrotal support

4.Ice packs for scrotum

5.Bed rest and Fluids

6.Surgical drainage if there is abscess formation.


What is the prognosis of Epididymitis and Orchitis?
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Prognosis with appropriate treatment and antibiotics is generally good.

There is a risk of sterility and decreased male hormone production if treatment is inadequate.


What are Preventive measures for Epididymitis and Orchitis?
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Avoid sexual partners with multiple partners.

Use condoms during sexual intercourse.