MEN' HEALTH

Torsion of the appendix testis

  • peak age of occurrence is 7-12 years
  • More than 50% of boys presenting with acute scrotal pain will have torsion of a testicular appendage
  • can present with clinical features similar to testicular torsion, such as severe acute scrotal pain with nausea and vomiting.
  • generally a self-limiting condition, are vestigial remnants with no known function
  • differential includes
    • ischemia (testicular torsion) 
    • infection (acute epididymo-orchitis)
    • trauma (scrotal contusion, testis rupture).
  • Symptoms
    • The gradual onset of pain
    • hydrocoele
    • pain is more localized to the upper pole of the testis 
    • NO
      • urinary symptoms
      • systemic signs such as fever, nausea, or vomiting
  • On exam
    • palpable, localized mass with maximum tenderness
    • the ‘blue dot’ sign  (infarcted testicular appendage)
    • scrotum usually appears normal, negative Prehn sign
    • cremasteric reflex is typically intact

  • Ultrasound
    • hypoechogenic focus with normal or increased blood flow to the testis 
  • treatment
    • conservative measures
      • NSAIDs
      • rest
      • ice
      • scrota
      • support and elevation. 
    • the pain may last for several weeks
    • Surgery is rarely indicated for a torsed testicular appendage.
      • A scrotal exploration should only be performed if
        • it is difficult to differentiate from testicular torsion
        • increasing pain
        • severe persistent pain unresponsive to conservative measures

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