Journal article

Publication year: 2013

Pages: E762-E768

Journal: European Journal of Radiology

Volume number: 82

Issue number: 12

ISSN: 0720-048X

eISSN: 1872-7727

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrad.2013.08.050

Publisher: Elsevier

Abstract: 

Objectives: To perform a comprehensive follow-up analysis of ultrasonographic scrotal features and associated signs in patients with acute epididymitis.

Methods: Between 2007 and 2012, 134 adults (median age 54 years) with acute epididymitis underwent scrotal ultrasonography and palpation at first presentation and after 2 weeks and 3 months.

Results: At first presentation, 61 patients (45.5%) had hydrocele, 63 (47.0%) concomitant orchitis, and 8 (5.9%) epididymal abscess. Epididymitis was predominantly located in 24 cases (17.9%) in the head, 52 cases (38.8%) in the tail, and 58 cases (43.3%) in both. On the affected side, testicular volume was 16.9 +/- 6.8 ml and peak systolic velocity of the testicular artery was 23.7 +/- 7.5 cm/s, compared to the healthy side with 12.3 +/- 4.4 ml and 9.5 +/- 3.6 cm/s respectively (P< 0.001). Concomitant orchitis was associated with hydrocele, testicular enlargement and pain (13 < 0.01). Orchiectomy due to secondary testicular infarction was necessary in four cases, while in all other patients ultrasound parameters normalized. Only 16190 patients (17.8%) showed a persistent epididymal swelling after 3 months.

Conclusions: Common ultrasound features include hydrocele, epididymal enlargement, hyperperfusion, and testicular involvement. Under conservative treatment, ultrasound parameters normalize without evidence of testicular atrophy even in patients with epididymal abscess or concomitant orchitis. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Harvard Citation style: Pilatz, A., Wagenlehner, F., Bschleipfer, T., Schuppe, H., Diemer, T., Linn, T., et al. (2013) Acute epididymitis in ultrasound: Results of a prospective study with baseline and follow-up investigations in 134 patients, European Journal of Radiology, 82(12), pp. E762-E768. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrad.2013.08.050

APA Citation style: Pilatz, A., Wagenlehner, F., Bschleipfer, T., Schuppe, H., Diemer, T., Linn, T., Weidner, W., & Altinkilic, B. (2013). Acute epididymitis in ultrasound: Results of a prospective study with baseline and follow-up investigations in 134 patients. European Journal of Radiology. 82(12), E762-E768. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrad.2013.08.050