[Ultrasonography of acute scrotum in children]

Paediatric surgeons and urologists are often asked to evaluate boys with acute scrotal pain and inflammation. Although, there is much aetiology for this syndrome: testicular torsion, appendicular testicular torsion, epididymo-orchitis, hernia, hydrocele, trauma, Henoch-Schonlein purpura, idiopathic scrotal edema. However, testicular torsion should be at the top of the list because of the medico legal aspects. It is the one diagnosis that must be made accurately and rapidly, if there is any hope for testicular salvage. Color Doppler ultrasound scan can reliably identify those children, who required exploration and spare medical causes. The purpose of this article is to update/review the appropriate evaluation and management of the acute scrotum and to guide the clinician in distinguishing testicular torsion from the other conditions that commonly mimic this surgical emergency.