Ultrasonographic Approach to the Acute Scrotum

Acute scrotum is a medical emergency characterized by significant scrotal pain, swelling, and erythema, with a sudden onset that may range from minutes to 24–48 hours. This condition accounts for approximately 0.5% of all emergency department visits. The causes of acute scrotum are diverse, and a rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial to distinguish conditions that require immediate surgical intervention from those that can be managed conservatively [1]. Ultrasonography is the first-line imaging modality for the diagnosis of acute scrotal disorders, as it allows rapid and highly accurate identification of these conditions in emergency settings [1]. The differential diagnosis of acute scrotum can be divided into four main categories: torsion, trauma, tumor, and inflammatory conditions (epididymo-orchitis). Although testicular tumors are not typically investigated as emergencies, approximately 15% are detected incidentally during emergency scrotal ultrasonography [2].