Acute scrotum in Henoch-Schönlein purpura
Choong, C.S.; Liew, K.L.; Liu, P.N.; Kuo, T.U.; Su, C.M.
Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi 63(7): 577-580
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 0578-1337 PMID: 10934812 Document Number: 517069
Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a systemic vasculitis with manifestations usually involving the skin, gastrointestinal tract, kidney and joints. Epididymitis is rarely seen as a complication of HSP. It is easily misdiagnosed as testicular torsion, causing the patient to undergo unnecessary surgery, because the patient may have complained of severe scrotal pain and swelling. We report a 5-year-old boy who was suffering from HSP associated with acute scrotal pain and swelling of the left testicle. No gastrointestinal signs were noted but severe joint pain, swelling and palpable skin lesions in the lower limbs and the buttocks were found. Prednisolone was prescribed and the boy recovered without surgical intervention.