Epididymitis Testing

Epididymitis Screen

What is Epididymitis?

Epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis. The epididymis is the tube through which sperm pass. The tube is located at the back of each testicle. Epididymitis can affect both testicles, but it most often occurs on just one side.

How is Epididymitis Diagnosed?

Your health care provider will examine your groin and scrotum to rule out other possible diagnoses. You may have a rectal exam. You may also have these tests:

• Urinalysis
• Tests for Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
• CBC with differential

How Does Epididymitis Occur?

Epididymitis is caused by bacterial infections, such as:

• Urinary tract infections
• Sexually transmitted diseases such as Chlamydia or Gonorrhea
• Prostatitis (infection of the prostate)

It may also happen if you have:

• A fungal infection
• Henoch-Schoenlein purpura (a disease that causes a rash and swelling of joints)
• A prostatectomy (removal of the prostate)
• A medical procedure that affects your urinary tract, such as cystoscopy (looking at the inside of the bladder through a slim, flexible, lighted tube) or a catheter (a small tube put into the bladder to drain the urine from your body).

Sometimes men have Epididymitis when they are taking a heart medicine called amiodarone (Cordarone).

What Are the Symptoms of Epididymitis?

Possible symptoms of Epididymitis are:

• Red, warm skin on the scrotum
• Tender, swollen testicle or groin area on one side
• Testicle pain that feels worse when you have a bowel movement
• Fever and chills
• Discharge from the urethra (the opening at the end of the penis)
• Pain or burning when you urinate
• Pain with intercourse or ejaculation
• Testicular lump
• Lower abdominal discomfort or pelvic discomfort
• Blood in the semen

Because pain in the testicles can be a symptom of another, more serious problem (testicular torsion), contact your health care provider right away if you have this symptom.