Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Ultrasonographic detection of chronic epididymitis in a stallion.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 1991
- Authors:
- Traub-Dargatz, J L et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Clinical Sciences · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A stallion was showing signs of chronic epididymitis, which is inflammation of the epididymis, a part of the male reproductive system. He had recurring pain in his groin area, his right testicle was being pulled up into the groin, and there was swelling on the right side of his scrotum. When examined, the right epididymis felt firm and was stuck to the testicle, while the left epididymis was also firmer than usual. An ultrasound showed that the right epididymis was larger than normal and had some irregular areas, indicating long-term inflammation and scarring. The stallion underwent surgery to remove the right testicle, but the outlook for recovery was uncertain due to possible issues with the left epididymis.
Abstract
Clinical signs of chronic epididymitis in a stallion included recurrent signs of inguinal pain--retraction of the right testis into the inguinal area, resentment of palpation of the right testis, and right-sided scrotal swelling. The tail of the right epididymis was firm and seemed to be adhered to the testis. The tail of the left epididymis felt firmer than normal. Ultrasonographically, the diameter of the head of the epididymis was considered larger than normal, was hyperechoic in relation to the right testis, and had an irregular border. Several bright 1- to 5-mm-diameter echogenic areas that alternated with less echogenic areas were seen in the head of the right epididymis. Ultrasonographic findings were interpreted as fibrosis attributable to chronic inflammation. Unilateral castration (right-sided) was performed, but the prognosis was guarded because of presumed involvement of the left epididymis.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2061161/