Infections in the epididymis are common. This condition is called epididymitis. Epididymitis may be recurring and cause chronic pain in the scrotum. The usual treatment is with antibiotics, however, a prolonged course may be necessary in select individuals. In severe cases that do not respond to medication, surgery may be necessary to remove nerves going to the testicle or to actually remove the testicle in an effort to relieve pain.
Cysts are very common on the epididymis.
On ultrasound evaluation, these can be differentiated from testicular tumors. No treatment is necessary unless there is persistent pain. Testicular cancer is the most common malignancy in men between the ages of 15 to 35 years. It, fortunately, is one of the most curable cancers due to early diagnosis, new techniques for treatment and a greater understanding of the nature history of the disease. Most tumors occur in late adolescence or early adulthood, however, tumors are also seen in infancy and in patients over the age of 6o years.