Contents

SynopsisCodesLook ForDiagnostic PearlsDifferential Diagnosis & PitfallsBest TestsManagement PearlsTherapyReferences
Torsion of appendix of testis
Print
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Torsion of appendix of testis

Print Images (1)
Contributors: Michael W. Winter MD, Eric Ingerowski MD, FAAP
Other Resources UpToDate PubMed

Alerts and Notices

Synopsis

Torsion of appendix of testis : Erythema, Scrotal edema, Orchidalgia
The testicular appendix is an embryologic remnant on the anterosuperior aspect of the testes of approximately 3 mm in diameter that fails to fully regress. Torsion of the testicular appendage refers to a twisting of this remnant appendage that results in sudden-onset, unilateral scrotal pain, inflammation, erythema, and tenderness of the testicular appendage without testicular tenderness. It occurs spontaneously, most commonly in boys aged 7-12. Patients will have preservation of the cremasteric reflex and a nontender testicle, although this can be difficult to differentiate due to often extreme tenderness of the adjacent testicular appendage.

Management is typically noninvasive, including analgesia, bed rest, and scrotal support.

Excluding alternative etiologies that may warrant more expedited emergency attention (eg, testicular torsion) is of paramount importance.

Codes

ICD10CM:
N44.03 – Torsion of appendix testis

SNOMEDCT:
198047009 – Torsion of appendix of testis

Look For

Subscription Required

Diagnostic Pearls

Subscription Required

Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls

Torsion of the testicular appendage is a benign, although painful, condition. It is most important to exclude other conditions that can present similarly in some circumstances.
  • Testicular torsion – Cremasteric reflex can be absent; will have testicular tenderness. This is a surgical emergency.
  • Acute appendicitis – Typically with anorexia and right lower quadrant abdominal pain that will migrate towards the umbilicus, but patients with a retrocecal appendix can present with inguinal / testicular pain.
  • Inguinal hernia with incarceration – Surgical emergency if not reducible.
  • Testicular trauma
  • Hydrocele
  • Epididymo-orchitis
  • Immunoglobulin A vasculitis (Henoch-Schönlein purpura)

Best Tests

Subscription Required

Management Pearls

Subscription Required

Therapy

Subscription Required

References

Subscription Required

Last Reviewed:04/14/2019
Last Updated:10/10/2022
Copyright © 2023 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.
Torsion of appendix of testis
Print  
A medical illustration showing key findings of Torsion of appendix of testis : Erythema, Scrotal edema, Orchidalgia
Copyright © 2023 VisualDx®. All rights reserved.