Patient's question:
Hello, I would like to learn about some knowledge related to men's health. Could you please tell me what causes acute orchitis? What are its symptoms?Doctor's answer:
Acute orchitis is also divided into acute non-specific orchitis and acute mumps orchitis.1. Acute Non-Specific Orchitis: This often occurs in patients with urethritis, cystitis, prostatitis, postoperative removal of benign prostatic hyperplasia, and those with long-term indwelling catheters. The infection spreads to the epididymis through lymphatic or vas deferens, causing epididymo-orchitis. Common pathogens include Escherichia coli, Proteus, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Bacteria can disseminate hematogenously to the testis, causing isolated orchitis. However, the testis has a rich blood supply and strong resistance to infection, making this condition less common.
2. Acute Mumps Orchitis: Mumps is the most common cause of orchitis, affecting about one-fifth of mumps patients. It is more common in late adolescence. Grossly, the testis appears highly swollen and purplish-blue. When the testis is incised, it cannot be expressed due to interstitial reaction and edema. Histological examination reveals edema, vascular dilation, extensive inflammatory cell infiltration, and varying degrees of degeneration in the seminiferous tubules. During the healing of orchitis, the testis becomes smaller and softer. The seminiferous tubules show severe atrophy, but Leydig cells are preserved, so testosterone secretion remains unaffected.
How is acute orchitis caused?
Expert Tips: Men should not ignore sudden testicular pain, as it may be a sign of orchitis. This condition is frequently encountered in urology clinics. Orchitis is curable as long as it is detected early and treated systematically and effectively to prevent testicular damage. Additionally, men should pay attention to reproductive health and hygiene in daily life to prevent the occurrence of orchitis.