- By Iram Hussain
- Wed, 01 Jan 2025 05:45 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
For most boys, discussing the topic of their private parts can be a little embarrassing, especially around puberty. As a result, they often do not report testicular pain until it becomes unbearable. However, it is important that they inform a parent or a healthcare provider if they ever experience any pain in the genitals, scrotum or testis as well as pain in the lower abdominal area. This seemingly minor discomfort sometimes indicates serious underlying conditions that require immediate medical attention. Testicular pain can result from infections, trauma or hernia/ hydroceles but the most serious cause is testicular torsion.
Torsion is a situation where the spermatic cord (the cord that carries blood to one of the testicles) gets twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. Ignoring the pain, assuming it will subside with time or delaying treatment can lead to long-term complications including infertility or loss of the affected testicle.
In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. TK Lama, HOD - Paediatric Surgery, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, New Delhi explained why young boys shouldn't ignore testicular pain.
Symptoms Of Pain In Torsion of Testis
- Sudden sharp pain affecting one of the Testis
- nausea
- vomiting
- lower abdominal pain
- or history of intermittent pain in the past especially after running and sports activity
As the pain worsens, the testicle and scrotum may become
- red,
- swollen,
- painful to touch
- testicle position may be higher or horizontal
Cause Of Testicular Torsion
Testicular torsion can occur in newborns with undescended testis and in any age group but it is especially common around puberty. One of the causes is a condition called the bell clapper deformity where the testicles are not properly attached to their tunica coverings, allowing them to turn and twist around the blood-supplying/spermatic cord.
Why Is The ‘Golden Hour’ A Crucial Factor?
The Golden Hour refers to the time period of 4-6 hours from symptoms onset. Early diagnosis and treatment within this window result in a high probability of the affected testicle getting saved. After 12 hours, the chance of recovery drops to 20- 50% and after 24 hours, the likelihood drops to 10%. Sometimes, the spermatic cord can become twisted and then untwist itself without treatment called intermittent torsion. One should still visit a paediatric surgeon and undergo surgery to prevent any future episodes.
How Is Testicular Torsion Diagnosed?
A timely examination by experts, ultrasound Doppler to assess blood flow to the testis and a few urine and blood tests are essential. In cases where the physical exam clearly points to a torsion, it is better to proceed with surgery early without additional tests in order to save the testicle. Occasionally, surgery itself is required to confirm the diagnosis.