What is the differential diagnosis of testicular torsion?

Studies have shown that between 16 and 42 percent of boys with acute scrotal pain have testicular torsion. The differential diagnosis of the acutely painful scrotum includes testicular torsion, trauma, epididymitis/orchitis, incarcerated hernia, varicocele, idiopathic scrotal edema, and torsion of the appendix testis.

What testicular torsion looks like?

The most common sign of testicular torsion is sudden, severe pain on one side of the scrotum. The testes should be about the same size. If one side quickly becomes larger than the other, this can be a problem. Change in scrotum color, especially redness or darkening, is also a problem.

Why is testicular torsion an emergency?

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency. Since all blood for the testicle comes through the spermatic cord, the blood supply is cut off with a twist. The testicle will shrink (“atrophy”) if the blood supply isn’t restored within 6 hours. With no blood, the testicle could die (or “infarct”).

What are differential diagnosis for testicular pain?

Testicular pain

Testicle pain
Diagnostic method	Ultrasound, urine tests, blood tests
Differential diagnosis	Acute: Epididymitis, testicular torsion, testicular cancer, varicocele, Fournier gangrene Chronic: Varicocele, spermatocele, Henoch–Schönlein purpura, post-vasectomy pain syndrome, chronic pelvic pain syndrome

Can testicular torsion resolve itself?

Sometimes, testicular torsion can cause a sudden pain in the testicle that goes away without treatment. This is because the testicle twists and then untwists on its own. If this happens, see a doctor as soon as possible. You might be advised that surgery is needed to prevent it happening again.

Can testicular torsion heal itself?

How long can you leave testicular torsion untreated?

In addition to the extent of torsion, the duration of torsion prominently influences the rates of both immediate salvage and late testicular atrophy. Testicular salvage is most likely if the duration of torsion is less than 6-8 hours. If 24 hours or more elapse, testicular necrosis develops in most patients.

What happens if you ignore testicular torsion?

Testicular torsion causes sudden pain and swelling in the scrotum or lower abdomen. This is an emergency situation — if left untreated, the condition can lead to a permanently damaged or dead testicle which must then be removed.

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