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Orchitis

By

Patrick J. Shenot

, MD, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital

Reviewed/Revised Aug 2023
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Orchitis is infection of the testes, most often by a virus such as mumps.

  • Orchitis is usually caused by a virus.

  • The testis swells and is painful.

  • A doctor's examination and urinalysis are used to diagnose orchitis.

  • Orchitis treatment involves measures to relieve pain.

The Epididymis
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The Testes and Scrotum
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Orchitis is most often caused by a virus, usually the mumps Mumps Mumps is a contagious viral infection that causes painful enlargement of the salivary glands. The infection may also affect the testes, brain, and pancreas, especially in adolescents and adults... read more Mumps virus. Rarely, it is caused by other infections. About 20 to 25% of men who have mumps develop orchitis. Most cases of mumps orchitis occur in boys younger than 10 years.

Orchitis may affect one testis or both testes. Long term, it may cause the testis to shrink but usually does not decrease production of the male hormone testosterone. Orchitis may diminish fertility, particularly if it affects both testes and/or occurs after puberty. However, infertility is rare.

Symptoms of Orchitis

In boys or men with mumps, orchitis develops between 4 and 7 days after the salivary gland swelling. The testis swells and is painful. Sometimes both testes are affected. Fever, nausea, headache, and muscle aches may also occur.

Diagnosis of Orchitis

Treatment of Orchitis

  • Pain relief measures

  • Sometimes antibiotics

Orchitis is usually treated with bed rest, pain relievers, and ice packs applied to the scrotum. Bacterial infections are treated with appropriate antibiotics.

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