Pediatric chronic orchalgia

Abstract

Introduction: Chronic orchalgia, defined as testicular pain lasting > 3 months and interfering with normal activities, is neglected in the pediatric literature. We describe our experience with the evaluation and treatment of pediatric chronic orchalgia patients.

Materials and methods: Charts were screened to identify patients meeting the criteria for chronic orchalgia. Charts were further reviewed to record the history and physical exam, diagnostic tests, treatment and outcomes.

Results: 65/982 patients met the criteria for chronic orchalgia. Mean age was 13 and mean duration of pain was 8.6 months. Physical exam findings were normal in 46 patients (70%). 59 patients were managed conservatively with resolution (10/59, 17%) or a single visit (36/59, 61%) in 78%. 13/59 (22%) patients showed either minor improvement or no change in symptoms. 5 non-responding patients were managed by the anesthesia pain service; 4 received epidurals with or without additional oral pain medications with 3 experiencing significant pain improvement.

Conclusion: Conservative management of chronic orchalgia allowed symptoms to subside in the majority of cases. We recommend patients be treated with conservative measures for 1-2 months. If this fails, early involvement of the anesthesia pain service can offer treatment modalities such as epidural analgesia. Surgical management in the face of a normal physical exam does not seem to have a role.