Urologie pro praxi 1/2022

Current view of the problem of epididymitis

Acute infections of the genitourinary tract are highly prevalent, and virtually all urologists have to deal with such cases on a daily basis in their clinical practice. Acute epididymitis presents a very common clinical picture in which two types of causative agents are usually considered: sexually transmitted organisms and common urinary pathogens. In young, sexually active men, Chlamydia trachomatis is usually causative and in older men with benign prostatic hyperplasia or other micturition disturbances, the most common uropathogens are involved. Chronic epididymitis has not yet been studied as thoroughly as acute epididymitis. Additional laboratory investigations and imaging may be required for differential diagnosis with other intrascrotal conditions, particularly with testicular torsion. The article provides an update on the definition, epidemiology, etiology, diagnostics and therapy in terms of acute and chronic epididymitis.

Keywords: epididymitis, acute, chronic, etiology, diagnosis, therapy.