Summary about Disease
Spermatic cord torsion is a painful condition that occurs when the spermatic cord, which provides blood flow to the testicle, twists. This twisting cuts off the blood supply to the testicle and surrounding tissues. Spermatic cord torsion is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to save the testicle. If blood flow is cut off for too long, the testicle can be damaged and may need to be removed. It is most common in males between the ages of 12 and 18, but it can occur at any age, even before birth.
Symptoms
Sudden, severe pain in one testicle
Scrotal swelling
Nausea and vomiting
Abdominal pain
Testicle that is positioned higher than normal or at an unusual angle
Frequent urination
Dizziness
Blood in semen
Causes
The exact cause of spermatic cord torsion is often unknown. It can occur after vigorous activity, a minor injury to the groin, or even during sleep. Some individuals may be predisposed to torsion due to an anatomical abnormality called the "bell clapper" deformity, where the testicle is not properly anchored within the scrotum, allowing it to rotate freely. In some cases, it can occur spontaneously without any identifiable trigger.
Medicine Used
Spermatic cord torsion requires immediate surgical intervention to untwist the spermatic cord and restore blood flow. Pain medication may be administered before surgery to alleviate discomfort. Post-operative pain management may involve analgesics as well.
Is Communicable
No, spermatic cord torsion is not a communicable disease. It is not caused by an infection and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
There are no definitive precautions to prevent spermatic cord torsion, as the underlying cause is often unknown or related to anatomical factors. However, prompt medical attention should be sought immediately if symptoms develop. Regular self-examination of the testicles may help in early detection of any abnormalities, but it will not prevent torsion.
How long does an outbreak last?
Spermatic cord torsion is not an outbreak-related disease. It is an acute condition. Without treatment, the effects of ischemia (lack of blood flow) can cause permanent damage within hours.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical exam: A doctor will examine the scrotum, testicles, abdomen, and groin.
Ultrasound: This imaging test can show blood flow to the testicles. Reduced or absent blood flow is a sign of torsion.
Urine and blood tests: These tests can help rule out other conditions, such as infection.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and treat the torsion.
Timeline of Symptoms
Symptoms appear suddenly and severely. The timeline is compressed:
Initial: Sudden onset of severe testicular pain.
Within hours: Scrotal swelling, nausea, vomiting. Pain intensifies.
After several hours: Testicular damage begins if blood flow is not restored.
Important Considerations
Time is critical: The longer the spermatic cord is twisted, the greater the risk of permanent testicular damage. Seek immediate medical attention.
Differential diagnosis: Other conditions, such as epididymitis or testicular trauma, can mimic the symptoms of spermatic cord torsion. Accurate and rapid diagnosis is crucial.
Surgical exploration: If the diagnosis is uncertain, surgical exploration may be necessary to rule out torsion.
Orchiopexy: During surgery, the testicle may be fixed to the scrotal wall (orchiopexy) to prevent future torsion. The opposite testicle may also be fixed prophylactically.
Testicular salvage: The primary goal of treatment is to salvage the testicle. However, if the testicle is no longer viable due to prolonged ischemia, it may need to be removed (orchiectomy).