Differential Diagnosis for Scrotal Redness and Pain
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Epididymitis: This is the most common cause of scrotal pain and redness, especially in young men. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection, often related to a urinary tract infection or a sexually transmitted infection.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Orchitis: Inflammation of one or both testicles, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. It can present with scrotal redness, pain, and swelling.
- Hydrocele: A collection of fluid around a testicle, which can cause scrotal swelling and redness, although pain may not always be a prominent symptom.
- Varicocele: Enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, which can cause discomfort, swelling, and sometimes redness.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Testicular Torsion: A medical emergency where the spermatic cord becomes twisted, cutting off the blood supply to the testicle. It presents with sudden, severe scrotal pain and swelling, and requires immediate surgical intervention to save the testicle.
- Fournier's Gangrene: A rare but life-threatening condition characterized by necrotizing fasciitis of the genitalia, which can start with scrotal redness and pain but rapidly progresses to more severe symptoms.
Rare Diagnoses
- Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP): A form of vasculitis that can affect various parts of the body, including the scrotum, causing redness, pain, and swelling.
- Scrotal Cellulitis: A bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the scrotum, which can cause redness, swelling, and pain.
- Spermatocele: A cystic structure filled with sperm, which can cause a painless scrotal mass but may occasionally become inflamed and painful.