Differential Diagnosis for Referred Pain to Scrotum and/or Testicle
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Lower Abdominal or Inguinal Pathology: The most common cause of referred pain to the scrotum or testicle is often related to issues in the lower abdomen or inguinal region, such as an inguinal hernia. This is due to the shared nerve supply (ilioinguinal nerve) between these areas.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Urinary Tract Issues: Conditions like kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or prostatitis can cause referred pain to the scrotum or testicles due to the proximity and shared innervation of these organs.
- Musculoskeletal Issues: Strains or injuries to the muscles in the lower abdomen or groin area can also cause pain that is referred to the scrotum or testicles.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Certain gastrointestinal conditions, such as a ruptured appendix or diverticulitis, can cause lower abdominal pain that may be referred to the scrotum or testicles.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Testicular Torsion: Although it typically presents with acute, severe testicular pain, it's crucial to consider testicular torsion in any case of scrotal or testicular pain due to its emergency nature requiring immediate surgical intervention.
- Epididymitis or Orchitis: Inflammation of the epididymis or testis can cause severe pain and has significant implications for fertility and testicular viability if not promptly treated.
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: While less common, an abdominal aortic aneurysm can cause lower abdominal pain that may be referred to the scrotum or testicles, and it is a medical emergency.
Rare Diagnoses
- Referred Pain from Spinal Issues: Certain spinal conditions, such as a herniated disk or spinal stenosis, can cause referred pain to the scrotum or testicles, although this is less common.
- Neurological Conditions: Conditions like nerve entrapment or neuropathies can also cause pain in the scrotal or testicular area, though these are relatively rare causes of such pain.