Persistent pain in the testicles is always a cause for concern, and one condition that warrants attention is testicular torsion. Recently, a case emerged where a teenager lost a testicle due to delayed treatment resulting from misdiagnosis.
Initially presenting with abdominal pain and increased bowel movements, the teenager was misdiagnosed with stomach-related issues and prescribed antibiotics. Despite repeated visits, his condition worsened, leading to surgery to remove the affected testicle.
Testicular torsion occurs when a testicle rotates in the scrotum, twisting the spermatic cord and cutting off blood supply. This can result in tissue death if not promptly addressed. Symptoms include sudden onset of severe pain, swelling, nausea, and vomiting.
While testicular torsion can occur at any age, it’s most common in infants and adolescents aged 12 to 18. The laxity of testicular attachments predisposes individuals to this condition, often affecting the left testicle.
While underwear choice isn’t linked to testicular torsion, physical trauma, such as contact sports injuries, can be a trigger. Massaging the scrotum isn’t recommended as a treatment.
Immediate surgical intervention is necessary to salvage the affected testicle. Success rates decrease with delayed treatment, emphasizing the importance of prompt action.
Losing a testicle may not affect fertility if the other testicle is healthy. However, it can impact hormonal production and semen quality. Regular check-ups are crucial to monitor hormonal levels and testicular size post-torsion.
