What is the cause of a swollen scrotum and diarrhea in a 2-year-old child?

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Differential Diagnosis for Swollen Scrotum in 2-year-old with Diarrhea

  • Single most likely diagnosis:
    • Acute scrotum due to viral gastroenteritis: This condition is likely given the combination of a swollen scrotum and diarrhea in a 2-year-old. Viral gastroenteritis can cause inflammation that may spread to the scrotum.
  • Other Likely diagnoses:
    • Urinary tract infection (UTI): A UTI can cause scrotal swelling and may be accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea.
    • Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP): This condition is a form of vasculitis that can cause scrotal swelling, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
    • Inguinal hernia: An inguinal hernia can cause scrotal swelling and may be more noticeable during episodes of increased abdominal pressure, such as during diarrhea.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
    • Testicular torsion: Although less likely in the presence of diarrhea, testicular torsion is a medical emergency that requires prompt attention. It can cause severe scrotal pain and swelling.
    • Appendicitis: Appendicitis can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and scrotal swelling if the appendix is located near the scrotum.
    • Intussusception: This condition involves the telescoping of a portion of the intestine into another, which can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, and scrotal swelling if the intussusception is located near the scrotum.
  • Rare diagnoses:
    • Scrotal cellulitis or abscess: Bacterial infections can cause scrotal swelling and may be accompanied by systemic symptoms like diarrhea.
    • Kawasaki disease: This condition is a rare form of vasculitis that can cause scrotal swelling, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
    • Lymphoma or other malignancies: Although extremely rare in this age group, malignancies can cause scrotal swelling and systemic symptoms like diarrhea.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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