Differential Diagnosis for a Palpable Testicular Mass after Orchitis at the Upper Pole of Testis
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Testicular abscess: This is a likely complication of orchitis, where the infection leads to the formation of a collection of pus within the testis, which can be palpable.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Epididymitis: Although the question specifies the mass is at the upper pole of the testis, epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis) can sometimes present with a palpable mass and is a common condition related to orchitis.
- Testicular infarction: Following orchitis, reduced blood flow to the testis can lead to infarction, which might present as a palpable mass.
- Chronic orchitis: This condition can lead to testicular atrophy or the formation of a palpable mass due to chronic inflammation.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Testicular tumor: Although less common than infectious or inflammatory causes, testicular cancer can present as a palpable mass and is critical to diagnose early for effective treatment.
- Testicular rupture: A severe complication that requires immediate surgical intervention, though it might not always present as a distinct "mass" but rather as acute pain and swelling.
- Rare diagnoses
- Spermatocele or epididymal cyst: These are benign cystic structures that can form in the epididymis and might be palpable, though they are less directly related to orchitis.
- Tuberculous orchitis: In areas where tuberculosis is common, this can be a rare cause of orchitis and subsequent testicular mass.
- Malacoplakia: A rare inflammatory condition that can affect the testis and present as a mass, though it is exceedingly uncommon.