Epididymitis

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• Q
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Blood in semen

Male reproductive anatomy

Male reproductive system

Pathway of sperm

• Painful scrotal swelling (testes enlarged)
• Testicular lump
• Tender, swollen testicle on affected side
• Tender, swollen groin area on affected side
• Testicle pain aggravated by bowel movement
• Fever
• Discharge from urethra (the opening at the end of the penis)
• Blood in the semen
• Groin pain

Physical examination shows a red, tender, and sometimes swollen mass on the affected hemi-scrotum. Tenderness is usually localized to a small area of the testicle where the epididymitis is attached.

Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin area (inguinal nodes) may be present. There may be a discharge from penis. A rectal examination may reveal an enlarged or tender prostate.

These tests may be performed:

• A urinalysis and culture (the provider may request several specimens including: initial stream, mid-stream, and after a prostate massage)
• Tests to screen for Chlamydia and gonorrhea
• CBC (complete blood count)
• Doppler ultrasound to rule out testicular torsion -- hypoechoic region may be visible on the affected side as well as increased blood flow or scrotal abscess
• Testicular scan (nuclear medicine scan) to rule out torsion -- in case of the epididymitis, increased blood flow may also be demonstrated

Review Date: 08/24/2006
Reviewed By: David R. Knowles, M.D., Advanced Urologic Surgeons, Mt. Vernon, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.