PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Testicular pain usually arises from which conditions?

1. Chronic epididymitis or hydrocele

2. Acute epididymitis, torsion, or testicular appendices

3. Acute urinary tract infections

4. Painful varicocele or benign tumors

The correct answer is: Acute epididymitis, torsion, or testicular appendices

Testicular pain is most commonly associated with acute conditions that directly impact the testicles or their supporting structures. Acute epididymitis, which is inflammation of the epididymis, often presents with sudden-onset pain and swelling. Testicular torsion, another critical condition, occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off blood supply to the testicle, leading to severe pain and the necessity for prompt surgical intervention. The presence of testicular appendices can also cause acute pain when they undergo torsion or inflammation. This combination of acute epididymitis, testicular torsion, and issues with testicular appendices represents conditions that require immediate attention, distinguishing them in terms of urgency and commonality from other options. Recognizing these causes can help in swift diagnosis and appropriate management, which is crucial in preventing complications such as testicular necrosis. Other conditions, while they may cause scrotal discomfort, are less commonly associated with the acute onset of testicular pain or do not present as critical scenarios requiring immediate surgical evaluation. For instance, chronic epididymitis and hydrocele tend to lead to a gradual onset of symptoms rather than sudden pain. Similarly, painful varicocele or benign tumors might present with discomfort, but they