Patterns of single and multiple claims of epididymitis among young privately-insured males in the United States, 2001 to 2004.

摘要

Epididymitis is characterized by unilateral pain and swelling in the scrotum, testicle, or epididymis, and is usually accompanied by urethritis. This condition may occur as a result of infection, systemic disease, or a physiological condition. Experts believe that the syndrome of acute epididymitis among sexually active males under the age of 35 most often results from untreated sexually transmitted infections, especially Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae.Chronic epididymitis, although more rare, also occurs in this young age group, and may or may not be associated with persistent infections (untreated infections or relapse following treatment failure) or reinfections (a new infection caused by the same or different organism). Some cases are not associated with an identified pathogen at all. The diagnosis and management of these conditions have improved in recent years, which has led to some decrease in morbidity and possibly to prevention of recurrences. Nonetheless, the literature on acute and chronic epididymitis is limited, and our understanding of its etiology and epidemiology is still incomplete. Knowledge of patterns of recurrence could be used to further enhance rescreening strategies for this syndrome.