Orchitis

Orchitis is an inflammation of one or both testicles. It can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, or less commonly, by non-infectious conditions.

Causes:

• Bacterial Orchitis: Often associated with epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis), it's most commonly caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as chlamydia and gonorrhea in sexually active men. Other bacteria, such as those causing urinary tract infections, can also lead to orchitis.

• Viral Orchitis: The most common cause of viral orchitis is the mumps virus. However, other viruses can also be responsible. Mumps orchitis usually develops four to seven days after the onset of mumps symptoms.

• Non-Infectious Orchitis: Less frequently, orchitis can occur without a detectable infection. Possible causes include trauma, autoimmune conditions, or unknown factors.

Symptoms:

Common symptoms of orchitis may include:

• Scrotal pain, ranging from mild to severe
• Swelling of one or both testicles
• Tenderness to the touch
• Fever
• Chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Malaise (general feeling of discomfort or illness)
• Blood in semen
• Pain during urination (dysuria)
• Pain during intercourse or ejaculation

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, including assessment of the scrotum and testicles. Diagnostic tests may include:

• Urine analysis: To check for infection.
• Blood tests: To check for infection or other underlying conditions.
• Scrotal ultrasound: To visualize the testicles and surrounding tissues, ruling out other conditions like testicular torsion or tumor.
• STI testing: If a sexually transmitted infection is suspected.

Treatment:

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• Bacterial Orchitis: Antibiotics are prescribed to treat the infection. Pain relievers and supportive measures like scrotal elevation and ice packs can help manage symptoms. Sexual partners may also need to be treated.

• Viral Orchitis: There is no specific antiviral treatment for mumps orchitis. Treatment focuses on symptom management, including pain relievers, ice packs, scrotal support, and rest.

• Non-Infectious Orchitis: Treatment focuses on symptom relief with pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications.

Complications:

Potential complications of orchitis can include:

• Infertility: Orchitis can affect sperm production and lead to infertility, especially if both testicles are involved.
• Testicular Atrophy: Shrinkage of the testicle.
• Chronic Scrotal Pain: Persistent pain in the scrotum.
• Scrotal Abscess: A collection of pus within the scrotum.
• Epididymitis: If not already present, orchitis can spread to the epididymis.

Prevention:

• Vaccination against mumps can help prevent mumps orchitis.
• Practicing safe sex, including using condoms, can reduce the risk of STIs that can cause bacterial orchitis.