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Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive anatomy
Male reproductive system
Male reproductive system
OverviewSymptomsTreatmentPrevention

Orchitis

Alternative Names:
Epididymo-orchitis; Testis infection

Treatment:
Medications to treat infection are prescribed if the causative agent is bacterial. Pain medications and anti-inflammatory medications are also commonly prescribed. In the case of gonorrhea or chlamydia, sexual partners must also be treated.

When orchitis is caused by viral agents, only analgesics (pain relievers) are prescribed. Bed rest, with elevation of the scrotum and ice packs applied to the area, is recommended.

Support Groups:
National STD Hotline: (800)227-8922.

Expectations (prognosis):
With appropriate diagnosis and adequate treatment of bacterially caused orchitis, normal function of the testicle is usually preserved.

Mumps orchitis cannot be treated and the outcome is unpredictable. Sterility has followed mumps orchitis.

Complications:

Orchitis may cause infertility and atrophy (diminished size) of one or both testicles.

Other potential complications include scrotal abcess, testicular infarction, cutaneous scrotal fistula and chronic epididymitis.

Acute pain in the scrotum or testicles is a surgical emergency. If you experience acute pain in the scrotum or testicles, seek immediate medical attention.



Calling your health care provider:
Call the local emergency number (such as 911) or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience an acute onset of testicular pain.

Review Date: 7/31/2002
Reviewed By: Young Kang, M.D., Department of Urology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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