A nurse is educating a group of male adolescents about testicular health.
Which self-examination practices should the nurse emphasize for early detection of testicular disorders?

Choice A rationale:

Swelling and enlargement of the scrotum are not typically associated with testicular torsion.

In fact, testicular torsion often presents with a high-riding, tender testicle and a higher position of the affected testicle, rather than swelling and enlargement.

Choice B rationale:

This is a correct finding associated with testicular torsion.

Severe, sudden-onset testicular pain is a hallmark symptom of this condition due to the compromised blood flow to the testicle.

Choice C rationale:

Warmth and erythema of the scrotal area are not commonly seen in testicular torsion.

These symptoms are more indicative of inflammatory conditions rather than testicular torsion.

Choice D rationale:

Absence of a cremasteric reflex is associated with testicular torsion.

The cremasteric reflex is typically absent on the side of the torsion due to the disruption of nerve signals.

Choice E rationale:

A palpable mass within the scrotum can be a sign of testicular torsion, particularly if the torsion has led to testicular swelling and distortion of the normal anatomy.

Choice A rationale:

Impaired fertility.

In the case of testicular torsion, the most concerning potential complication is impaired fertility.

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency where the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood supply to the testicle.

If not promptly treated, it can result in permanent damage to the testicle, leading to impaired fertility or even loss of the affected testicle.

Choice B rationale:

Testicular atrophy.

Testicular atrophy can be a consequence of testicular torsion, but impaired fertility takes precedence as the most concerning potential complication.

Testicular atrophy refers to the shrinking of the testicle due to reduced blood flow and can result from untreated torsion.

However, the primary concern is preserving fertility whenever possible.

Choice C rationale:

Recurrent torsion.

While recurrent torsion is a potential complication, it is not the most concerning one in this case.

The immediate priority is to address the acute torsion episode and prevent permanent damage to the testicle.

Once the initial episode is managed, strategies to reduce the risk of recurrent torsion can be considered.

Choice D rationale:

Metastasis to other organs.

Metastasis to other organs is not a direct concern in cases of testicular torsion.

Testicular torsion is a mechanical issue involving the twisting of the spermatic cord, and it does not typically lead to metastasis.

The primary focus should be on restoring blood flow and preventing damage to the affected testicle.