Acute experimental E. coli epididymitis in the rat and its consequences on spermatogenesis.

The injection of E. Coli into the tail of the epididymis in the rat caused epididymitis. In 20% of the cases, the inflammation is spread through the lymphatic system to the testis. The germinal cells are destroyed in 50% of the cases by the second day, and are not reestablished for several months. Signs of testicular inflammation are not found. The destruction seems to be caused by E. Coli toxins, as shown by injections of killed bacteria.