Acute epididymo-orchitis complicated by outcomes of either testicular necrosis or complete recovery: Two case reports.

RATIONALE

Acute epididymo-orchitis, a common urological emergency requiring prompt intervention to prevent complications like testicular ischemia. This study highlights the use of serial Doppler ultrasound monitoring in patients with acute epididymo-orchitis, particularly in high-risk individuals.

PATIENT CONCERNS

Case 1: A 70-year-old male with a history of bladder cancer, prostate malignancy, and hypertension, presented with scrotal swelling, pain, and lower abdominal discomfort. Physical examination revealed an enlarged and tender right testicular epididymis, with normal findings on the left. Ultrasound showed increased blood flow to the right testicular epididymis, indicating inflammation. Case 2: A 34-year-old male presented with scrotal swelling, pain, and lower abdominal discomfort. Ultrasound revealed increased testicular and epididymal blood flow, suggesting inflammation. The antibiotic therapy was adjusted according to the continuous ultrasound monitoring.

DIAGNOSES

Both cases were ultimately diagnosed as testicular epididymal inflammation.

INTERVENTIONS

Patient 1 underwent anti-inflammatory therapy and orchiectomy. Patient 2 was treated with antibiotic therapy and recovered.

OUTCOMES

Patient 1 experienced testicular necrosis, whereas Patient 2 achieved a full recovery.

LESSONS

The importance of serial Doppler ultrasonography: delayed follow-up imaging in this case allowed ischemic changes to progress irreversibly, despite initial Doppler findings showing increased perfusion. Early and repeated imaging is critical to monitor disease progression and guide timely interventions. Limitations of inflammatory markers: the disease worsened although the patient's leukocytosis and IL-6 levels improved markedly during treatment, highlighting that relying solely on blood tests is insufficient to determine treatment efficacy. Patient-specific risk stratification: high-risk individuals require more aggressive diagnostic and therapeutic protocols to prevent irreversible complications.