Patient's question:
Expert, I would like to understand the difference between orchitis and epididymitis. It is said that the incidence of epididymitis in men is relatively high nowadays. So, what are the differences between these two? I would appreciate it if you could help me clarify the differences between orchitis and epididymitis.Doctor's answer:
Orchitis:(1) High fever, chills
(2) Pain in the affected testicle, with referred pain in the scrotum, groin, and inguinal region
(3) Swelling and tenderness in the affected testicle. If inflamed, there may be a dull, purulent sensation upon palpation
(4) Often accompanied by redness and swelling of the scrotal skin and hydrocele (accumulation of fluid in the tunica vaginalis)
(5) Recurrent viral orchitis in children. Sometimes, swelling and pain of the parotid glands may also be observed
Epididymitis:
May cause scrotal pain and a sense of heaviness or fullness. Pain can radiate to the lower abdomen and the inner side of the same thigh. Physical examination may reveal mild swelling of the epididymis.