Epididymitis

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
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Epididymitis
File:Acute epididymitis, low mag.jpg Micrograph of acute epididymitis.
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Scrotal pain, swelling, fever, dysuria
Complications	Chronic epididymitis, abscess, infertility
Onset	Sudden
Duration	Days to weeks
Types	N/A
Causes	Bacterial infection, sexually transmitted infections
Risks	Unprotected sex, urinary tract infections, prostate surgery
Diagnosis	Physical examination, urinalysis, ultrasound
Differential diagnosis	Testicular torsion, orchitis, inguinal hernia
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Antibiotics, pain management, rest
Medication	Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin, Ibuprofen
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common in men aged 19-35
Deaths	N/A

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, a tube located at the back of the testicles. This condition is often caused by an infection, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Causes

The most common causes of epididymitis are bacterial infections. These can include sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. In other cases, urinary tract infections or prostate infections can lead to epididymitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms of epididymitis can include:

• Pain and swelling in the testicle
• Redness and warmth in the scrotum
• Painful urination or an urgent need to urinate
• Discharge from the penis
• Fever

Diagnosis

Medical professionals diagnose epididymitis based on symptoms, a physical examination, and medical history. They may also use tests such as ultrasound, urine tests, and STI tests.

Treatment

Treatment for epididymitis usually involves antibiotics to fight the underlying infection. Pain medication and rest are also recommended. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for epididymitis primarily involve safe sex practices, such as using condoms. Regular testing for STIs can also help prevent epididymitis.

Gallery

• Epididymis diagram
  Epididymis diagram
• Ultrasonography of epididymitis
  Ultrasonography of epididymitis
• Suppurative epididymo-orchitis histopathology
  Suppurative epididymo-orchitis histopathology
• Epididymal calcifications and cyst
  Epididymal calcifications and cyst

See Also

• Testicular torsion
• Orchitis
• Prostatitis