Testicular ischemia secondary to acute epididymitis: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: Rare side effects of acute epididymitis include testicular infarction and ischemia. Distinguishing them from testicular torsion is challenging, both clinically and radiologically. However, only a few such cases have been reported to date. Patient concerns: A 12-year-old child presented with persistent right testicular pain for 3 days. It developed after trauma and was accompanied by gradual swelling and enlargement of the right scrotum, with nausea and vomiting. Scrotal color Doppler ultrasonography demonstrated right epididymitis, right scrotal wall swelling, and right testicular torsion. Routine blood tests revealed leukocyte and neutrophil counts were both above normal. Diagnosis: Scrotal exploration revealed edema and adhesions in all layers of the scrotal wall. The right testicle was pale. The patient was diagnosed with testicular ischemia secondary to acute epididymitis. Interventions: The patient underwent simultaneous lower spermatic cord sheath dissection and decompression, testicular sheath reversal, and right testicular fixation. Outcomes: Blood flow to the testicles gradually recovered after decompression, as did the color. Postoperatively, the patient’s scrotal swelling and pain improved significantly. Lessons: Despite the rarity of this condition, it is a potentially serious consequence of epididymitis and should be considered when patients experience sudden scrotal pain.