Epididymitis in the young adult male

Epididymitis, the most common intrascrotal inflammation, accounts for more than 600,000 yearly visits to health care providers in the United States. Previously though to be of idiopathic origin, most cases in young male adults now are recognized as arising from sexually transmitted pathogens. Appropriate assessment depends on a high index of clinical suspicion, evaluation for the presence of urethritis, and appropriate cultures. Antibiotic therapy is the most important aspect of treatment, and sexual partners must be evaluated and treated. The high incidence of this disorder and its implication for future male fertility present a challenge to the health care provider in the ambulatory care setting.