One of the most common differentials for the acute scrotum is an epididymo-orchitis (EO), which can mimic the presentation of testicular torsion. We present a case of a 37-year-old man presented to the Emergency department with a 3-day history of progressive left testicular pain. A Doppler ultrasound was done which revealed increased flow to the left testicle with no evidence of testicular torsion and he was discharged. He was re-admitted with worsening pain and a repeat scan showed that the penile arterial diastolic flow had reversed, indicating testicular infarction. This was confirmed at exploration and an orchidectomy was performed. EO causing severe complications is an uncommon manifestation of a common disorder. Features suggesting a lack of response to antibiotics include sepsis, pronounced scrotal oedema, severe testicular pain and scrotal wall inflammation. The presence of a positive urine culture has also been highlighted as a poor prognostic factor.

HighlightsSuitable for uncircumcised men with a penile fracture without urethral injury.An intentional delay of seven days is made before reassessment of the patient.In true penile fractures a “rolling sign” at the fracture site is felt at day seven.Focal incision over the fracture site under local anaesthesia is possible.The delayed approach mitigates against negative surgical exploration.

Key Clinical MessageColovesical fistulae typically present with pneumaturia and/or fecaluria. Diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and malignancies of the colon are the commonest causes. The fistulous tract and adjacent organs are best demonstrated by contrast-enhanced CT scan with rectal contrast or MRI. Biopsy at cystoscopy/colonoscopy is necessary for complete evaluation and treatment planning.

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