Inflammation of the testicles and epididymis, which usually occur together and are medically referred to as orchitis and epididymitis, are rare but can lead to reduced or even complete infertility in stallions.
The majority of testicular inflammation is caused by trauma and results from blows or stab wounds, which occur, for example, during mating and are usually unilateral. Viral and bacterial infections can also cause testicular inflammation. Bacterial pathogens enter the testicular tissue either via the blood or ascending from the urethra, while viral infections usually develop as a result of a general viral infection (influenza, EIA, EVA).
The inflammation can be either acute or chronic. Furthermore, a distinction is made between aseptic (non-infectious) and purulent inflammation. In acute aseptic inflammation, the affected stallions show classic symptoms of inflammation such as swelling, warmth, and severe pain in the testicles. The general condition is usually significantly impaired, with fever and reduced sex drive. Furthermore, a tense gait, sometimes unilateral lameness, and colic symptoms may occur.
Chronic inflammation can develop from acute processes or independently and is characterized by an inelastic, rough, non-warm swelling of the testicles and significantly less pronounced general symptoms. Adhesions of the testicular membranes to the testicles can lead to severely restricted mobility of the testicles.
In the case of purulent inflammation, the testicles and spermatic cord are hot, swollen, and extremely painful. Edema (fluid accumulation) or phlegmon (purulent inflammation of the subcutaneous connective tissue) may develop around the testicles. Due to the high pressure exerted by the inelastic outer membrane of the testicle, necrosis (tissue death) and granuloma or abscess formation may occur.
If you notice one or more of the above symptoms in your stallion, please contact a veterinarian immediately so that treatment can be started as soon as possible.
A detailed preliminary report from the owner, especially regarding any mating, injuries, or general infections, provides the veterinarian with valuable initial information about orchitis. The veterinarian will then perform a general clinical examination, thoroughly palpating the testicles and scrotum. In many cases, the veterinarian can make a diagnosis based on the clinical symptoms after this examination.
To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other similar conditions such as testicular tumors, fluid accumulation in the genital area, or testicular torsion, an additional ultrasound examination and bacteriological examination of semen and swab samples can be very helpful.
Acute inflammation is initially treated locally and generally with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medication. Non-infectious inflammation can be alleviated with rest, cold showers, and cooling ointments. Deep-acting ointments or heat should be avoided at all costs due to the high sensitivity of the testicular tissue, as this can easily lead to tissue damage. If bacterial inflammation is confirmed, your veterinarian will prescribe appropriate general antibiotic preparations. Larger puncture wounds must be treated surgically.
Chronic testicular and epididymal inflammation cannot be treated. Due to the irreparable damage to the testicular tissue, as well as in cases of severe acute purulent inflammation with abscess formation or necrosis, unilateral castration is usually required.
With regard to maintaining the fertility of the stallion, the prognosis is always uncertain, as inflammatory changes in the testicular tissue can lead to impaired sperm production within a very short time. The specific chances of recovery depend on the extent, course, and duration of the inflammation.
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