Clinical value of scrotal ultrasound in the investigation of scrotal pathology.

The investigation of scrotal swelling has been aided by the advent of scrotal ultrasound. We have reviewed 100 patients in whom 112 scans were performed. One quarter of this group presented with scrotal pain without swelling. Of these patients, 33% were shown to have normal testes on scan; the remainder all had benign disease. A similar number presented with scrotal pain and swelling and the majority were diagnosed on scan as having epididymitis. Nineteen patients were thought on clinical grounds to have tumours; 6 were proven at operation and all were correctly identified pre-operatively by scanning. Scrotal ultrasound is a useful investigation in the management of both painless and painful scrotal swellings.