Clinical characteristics of pediatric acute epididymitis: a single institute review of 142 cases.

Abstract

Purpose: Acute epididymitis (AE) is a common cause of scrotal pain and swelling in children; however, its etiology and risk factors for poor outcomes remain unclear. This study aimed to identify the clinical characteristics and potential risk factors associated with poor AE outcomes.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed pediatric patients with AE treated at our hospital. Clinical data, laboratory results, ultrasonographic findings, and treatment strategies were analyzed. We conducted comparative analyses to identify significant risk factors linked to poor outcomes.

Results: A total of 142 patients with a median age of 9 years were reviewed. Of these, 137 cases had favorable testicular outcomes, while five cases had poor outcomes, including three cases of testicular or epidydimal atrophy, one case of testicular necrosis, and one case of testicular necrosis and abscess. Fever (p = 0.001), C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (p = 0.002), and decreased testicular blood flow on ultrasonography (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with poor testicular outcomes.

Conclusion: Fever, CRP levels, and decreased testicular blood flow are risk factors for unfavorable testicular outcomes in pediatric patients with AE. Patients with these risk factors require careful monitoring and may benefit from aggressive management strategies.