Testicular Pain

Author: Kellie Bateman / Editors: Nigel Poland, Catherine Miller, Chris Wearmouth / Reviewer: Beth Newstead, Jason Kendall, Ahmad Alabood / Code: / Published: 14/04/2021 / Reviewed: 13/12/2024

This module is an introduction to the assessment and management of acute testicular pain with reference to the anatomy. It particularly focuses on the importance of recognising and promptly managing testicular torsion.

Learning objectives:

  1. Describe how the anatomy of the testicle relates to the presentation of acute testicular pain
  2. Evaluate a patient presenting with acute testicular pain
  3. Identify testicular torsion as an important differential in acute testicular pain requiring urgent management
  4. Identify and distinguish alternative differentials for acute testicular pain
  5. Recall the management of acute testicular pain in the emergency department (ED)
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References

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  2. Manski D. Testis, Epididymis and Spermatic Cord: Gross Anatomy [Internet]. 2016 [cited 2016 Nov 10].
  3. Jones O. Testes and Epididymis [Internet]. Teach me anatomy. 2015 Last updated 2023 [cited Nov 25 2024].
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  5. Mathews RI. Testicular Torsion [Internet]. Medscape. 2016, updated: Sep 25 2024 [cited Nov 25 2024].
  6. Yin S, Trainor JL. Diagnosis and management of testicular torsion, torsion of the appendix testis, and epididymitis. Clin Pediatr Emerg Med. 2009;10(1):3844.
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  11. Knight PJ, Vassy LE. The diagnosis and treatment of the acute scrotum in children and adolescents. Ann Surg. 1984 Nov;200(5):664-73.
  12. Dresner ML. Torsed appendage. Diagnosis and management: blue dot sign. Urology. 1973 Jan;1(1):63-6. doi: 10.1016/0090-4295(73)90116-7.
  13. Rabinowitz R. The importance of the cremasteric reflex in acute scrotal swelling in children. J Urol. 1984 Jul;132(1):89-90.
  14. Lindsey D, Stanisic TH. Diagnosis and management of testicular torsion: pitfalls and perils. Am J Emerg Med. 1988 Jan;6(1):42-6.
  15. Kass EJ, Stone KT, Cacciarelli AA, Mitchell B. Do all children with an acute scrotum require exploration? J Urol. 1993 Aug;150(2 Pt 2):667-9.
  16. Sharp VJ, Kieran K, Arlen AM. Testicular torsion: diagnosis, evaluation, and management. Am Fam Physician. 2013 Dec 15;88(12):835-40.

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