Overview

Orchitis is an inflammation of one or both testicles, most commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections. It can lead to swelling, pain, fever, and discomfort in the scrotal area. Orchitis is often associated with the mumps virus, especially in adolescent boys and adult men. While the condition usually resolves with proper treatment, complications such as infertility can occur if not managed promptly.

What is Orchitis?

Orchitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation of the testes. It may occur on its own or in combination with epididymitis (known as epididymo-orchitis). The condition can result from viral infections, such as mumps, or bacterial infections, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Orchitis can affect males of any age, but it is more common in sexually active men and those who have not been vaccinated against mumps.

Symptoms

• Swelling in one or both testicles
• Sudden or gradual testicular pain
• Redness and tenderness in the scrotum
• Fever and chills
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain during urination or ejaculation
• Blood in the semen
• Discharge from the penis (in bacterial cases)
• Feeling of heaviness in the testicle

Causes

The most common causes of orchitis include:

• Viral infection: Mumps virus is a leading cause, especially in unvaccinated males
• Bacterial infection: Often caused by STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea
• Urinary tract infections: Bacteria can spread from the urinary tract to the testicles
• Epididymitis: Infection of the epididymis can extend to the testicle
• Trauma or injury: Can lead to secondary inflammation
• Catheter use or urological procedures: May introduce bacteria

Risk Factors

• Lack of mumps vaccination
• Age (common in males aged 15–35)
• Multiple sexual partners or unprotected sex
• History of STIs
• Long-term use of urinary catheters
• Enlarged prostate or other urinary tract problems
• Epididymitis or recurrent urinary tract infections

Complications

If not treated appropriately, orchitis can lead to:

• Testicular atrophy (shrinkage of the affected testicle)
• Infertility, especially if both testicles are affected
• Chronic pain or persistent discomfort
• Abscess formation in the scrotum
• Hormonal imbalances in rare cases
• Spread of infection to surrounding tissues

Prevention

• Get vaccinated against mumps (MMR vaccine)
• Practice safe sex to prevent STIs
• Seek early treatment for urinary tract infections and epididymitis
• Avoid activities that may cause trauma to the testicles
• Use proper hygiene and care if using a urinary catheter
• Maintain regular urological check-ups if you have risk factors

Treatment Option in Korea

South Korea offers top-tier urological care with a focus on accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for orchitis. Treatment typically depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Antibiotics: Prescribed in cases of bacterial orchitis or epididymo-orchitis
• Antiviral medications: May be recommended for viral cases, especially due to mumps
• Pain relief: NSAIDs or other painkillers to reduce inflammation and discomfort
• Scrotal support: Wearing supportive underwear or using ice packs can relieve symptoms
• Hospitalization: In severe or complicated cases, inpatient treatment and monitoring may be required
• Follow-up care: Includes semen analysis or hormone tests in cases where fertility may be affected

Hospitals such as Samsung Medical Center, Severance Hospital, and Asan Medical Center in Korea provide advanced diagnostic imaging, infection management, and male reproductive health services. These institutions also support international patients with English-speaking staff and personalized care programs.