FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

In a patient with acute epididymitis, which symptom is commonly observed?

1. Painless swelling

2. Unilateral scrotal pain

3. Dark urine

4. Frequent urination

The correct answer is: Unilateral scrotal pain

Unilateral scrotal pain is a hallmark symptom commonly observed in cases of acute epididymitis. This condition typically presents with sudden onset pain and tenderness localized to one side of the scrotum, which can be quite severe. The pain often develops rapidly and may be accompanied by swelling of the epididymis. Other symptoms that can accompany the pain include redness and warmth of the scrotum, and if there is associated infection, systemic signs like fever may also be present. This symptomatology differentiates acute epididymitis from conditions like testicular torsion, where the pain is often more severe and presents differently. The other options presented, such as painless swelling, dark urine, and frequent urination, do not accurately represent the primary clinical presentation associated with acute epididymitis. Painless swelling may indicate other issues, such as a hydrocele or testicular tumor, while dark urine is typically associated with urinary tract infections rather than epididymitis. Frequent urination could suggest a bladder or urinary tract issue, which, while it can be involved in some cases, is not the defining symptom of epididymitis.