Epididymitis in children: is further investigation necessary after the first episode?

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of investigating underlying urinary tract pathology after the first episode of acute epididymitis in children with no prior urological history, and also to assess the possible predictive factors of urological disease at the time of diagnosis.

METHODS

Children with acute epididymitis were studied retrospectively over a period of 8 years. Diagnosis was made either using ultrasonography or surgical exploration. Renal ultrasonography and voiding cystourethrography were performed 1 month after epididymitis.

RESULTS

These tests were carried out in 38 children who revealed 7 anomalies (18%). Only 1 patient received further surgery : endoscopic treatment of a ureterocele. We also studied 3 predictive factors: age <2 years; recurrence, and urine bacteria. None could be associated with the presence of urinary tract pathology.

CONCLUSION

The authors suggest that, when there is no previous urological anomaly and absence of bacteriuria, routine screening for epididymitis should be carried out following the second episode.