The SCROTUM may be affected by various skin diseases, particularly eczema (see DERMATITIS) or fungal infection. A HERNIA may pass into the scrotum. Defective development of the testicle may lead to its retention within the abdomen, a condition called undescended testicle.
is a collection of fluid distending one or both sides of the scrotum. Treatment is by withdrawal of the fluid using a sterile syringe and aspiration needle.
Reduced activity of the testes or ovaries (male and female gonads). The result is impaired development of the secondary sexual characteristics (growth of the genitals, breast and adult hair distribution). The cause may be hereditary or the result of a disorder of the PITUITARY GLAND which produces GONADOTROPHINS that stimulate development of the testes and ovaries.
is distension of the veins of the spermatic cord, especially on the left side, the causes being similar to varicose veins elsewhere (see VEINS, DISEASES OF). The chief symptom is a painful dragging sensation in the testicle, especially after exertion. Occasionally an operation may be advisable particularly if accompanied by a low sperm-count and infertility.
or acute inflammation may arise from CYSTITIS, stone in the bladder, and inflammation in the urinary organs, especially GONORRHOEA. It may also follow MUMPS. Intense pain, swelling and redness occur; treatment consists of rest, support of the scrotum, analgesics as appropriate, and the administration of antibiotics if a definitive micro-organism can be identified. In some patients the condition may develop and form an ABSCESS.
or twisting of the spermatic cord may occur in children and adolescents. Typically starting with pain in the lower abdomen or scrotum, the testis becomes hard and swollen. Treatment consists of immediate undoing of the torsion by manipulation. If done within a few hours, no harm should ensue; however, this should be followed within six hours by surgical operation to ensure that the torsion has been relieved and to fix the testes. Delayed surgical attention may result in ATROPHY of the testis.
may occur in the testicle, especially when the bladder is already affected. Causing little pain, the infection is often far advanced before attracting attention. The condition generally responds well to treatment with a combination of antituberculous drugs (see also main entry for TUBERCULOSIS).
of the testes occur in around 2,300 males annually in the United Kingdom. There are two types: SEMINOMA and TERATOMA. When adequately treated the survival rate is as high as 98%, except in elderly patients.
A severe blow may lead to SHOCK and symptoms of collapse, usually relieved by rest in bed; however, a HAEMATOMA may develop.
Some male babies are born with one or both testes still in the abdominal cavity rather than in the scrotum. All boys are examined for this at birth and, if present, arrangements made for surgery. This probably makes no difference to eventual fertility but protects the person from testicular cancer, which is more common in an undescended testicle.