Orchitis

Orchitis (plural: orchitides) is an infection of the testicle, which is rarely isolated, and when in conjunction with the epididymis is called epididymo-orchitis.

Pathology

Usually, bacteria retrogradely seed into the testis from the bladder or prostate. It can also be secondary to viral infection (e.g. mumps, Coxsackie virus).

Associations

Radiographic features

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is the gold standard investigation. When compared with the other testis in the 'sunglasses view' features of orchitis include relative:

  • hypoechogenicity: focal or diffuse
  • hypervascularity: focal or diffuse
  • swelling
  • scrotal wall thickening

A complex/septated hydrocele can be seen in the ipsilateral scrotum.

Differential diagnosis

  • intermittent testicular torsion 
    • reperfusion after intermittent torsion can present similarly on Doppler ultrasound with increased flow, but the patient's history allows differentiation
  • primary testicular malignancy should be considered, especially with focal changes
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