Stillwell, Thomas J.

Testicular torsion is the most common cause of acute scrotal pain in prepubertal and adolescent boys and should be foremost in the minds of primary care physicians evaluating these children. Intermittent testicular torsion is a separate entity that should be considered in all young males with a history of scrotal pain and swelling. Acute and intermittent sharp testicular pain and scrotal swelling, interspersed with long intervals without symptoms, are characteristic. Physical findings may include horizontal or very mobile testes, an anteriorly located epididymis, or bulkiness of the spermatic cord from partial twisting. Awareness of this entity and early elective orchiopexy will improve testicular salvage in patients with intermittent testicular torsion.