a. Signs and Symptoms. Some cases may have no symptoms. For other
patients, these signs and symptoms will be evident:
(1) Dragging scrotal sensation. The chief complaint will be that the patient
feels the scrotum is heavy.
(2) Possible subfertility. Sperm travel from the vas deferens to the seminal
vesicles may be hindered.
(3) Diagnosis may be made by palpation/transillumination of the scrotum.
The twisted mass of veins can be felt. The scrotum will not transilluminate (light will not
pass through the scrotum).
b. Treatment. If there are no signs or symptoms, the condition is best left
along. If the patient has symptoms, refer him to the medical facility for treatment and
possible surgical correction.
1-5.
ORCHITIS
Orchitis is an infection of the testicles, a very painful, serious complication of
epididymitis. Mumps may also cause the infection orchitis. Other causes or orchitis
include a systemic infection, testicular torsion, or severe trauma.
Figure 1-4. Area of orchitis.
MD0580
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