acute epididymitis

Epididymitis is an infection of the epididymis. The epididymis is a soft, coiled tubular structure on the back of the testicle.

 

Infections generally spread to the epididymis from the bladder or the urethra. The urethra is the tube that allows urine to pass from the bladder to the outside of the body.

 

In young children or older men, bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTIs) are often the cause. Sexually transmitted infections are more likely to be the cause in sexually active young men.

 

Infection in the epididymis causes severe pain and swelling. The infection may spread to the testicle. When both structures are inflamed, the condition is known as epididymo-orchitis.

 

It is rare that an infection will occur in the testicle alone. The bacteria will usually infect the epididymis first.

 

Symptoms of the condition include:

 

Risk factors for epididymitis are the same as for infections of the urethra or bladder. These two conditions create an increased risk for epididymitis.

Avoidance of the risk factors mentioned above can reduce the risk of epididymitis. When early treatment is given for infection of the bladder or urethra, epididymitis can often be avoided. Symptoms of these two conditions may include frequent and painful urination. A burning sensation in the penis during urination, unusually strong urges to urinate and fever can also occur. If these symptoms occur, affected persons are advised to see a healthcare provider. Unfortunately, infections of the urethra and bladder sometimes cause no symptoms. Epididymitis is difficult to prevent in these cases.

A physical exam and medical history are the keys to diagnosis. Pain comes on rapidly over a 1 or 2 day period. Symptoms of bladder infection may also be present. Urine tests such as urinalysis or urine culture may be done to look for signs of infection.