Epididymitis

It is a highly convoluted duct behind the testis, along which sperm passes to the vas deferens. It is a tube that connects a testicle to a vas deferens in the male reproductive system.

Symptoms: Signs and symptoms of epididymitis might include: A swollen, red or warm scrotum. Testicle pain and tenderness, usually on one side. Painful urination or an urgent or frequent need to urinate. Discharge from the penis. Painful intercourse or ejaculation. A lump on the testicle. Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin.

Diagnosis: STI screening: A narrow swab is inserted into the end of your penis to obtain a sample of discharge from your urethra. The sample is checked in the laboratory for gonorrhea and chlamydia. Urine and blood tests: Samples of your urine and blood are analyzed for abnormalities. Ultrasound: This imaging test might be used to rule out testicular torsion. Ultrasound with color Doppler can determine if the blood flow to your testicles is lower than normal  indicating torsion  or higher than normal, which helps confirm the diagnosis of epididymitis.

Treament: Antibiotics are used if an infection is suspected. The treatment of choice is often azithromycin and cefixime to cover both gonorrhoeae and chlamydia. Fluoroquinolones are no longer recommended due to widespread resistance of gonorrhoeae to this class. Doxycycline may be used as an alternative to azithromycin.

Epidemology: It occurs primarily in those 16 to 30 years of age and 51 to 70 years.As of 2008 there appears to be an increase in incidences in the United States that parallels an increase in reported cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea.