Long-Term Bedridden Patient with Right Testicle Abscess: When to Seek Medical Help?

Q: Long-Term Bedridden Patient with Right Testicle Abscess: When to Seek Medical Help?

Hello： It is best to seek medical attention, as there is currently a wound and there is a concern about recurrence. <br>You should pay attention to keeping the area clean and dry, and if it gets wet, it should be disinfected. <br>Wishing you good health.

Long-term bed rest has resulted in purulent blood (white pus) discharge from the right testicle?

The patient has been bedridden for 14 years and has diabetes.
About a month ago, the right testicle began to swell and turn red.
Initially, it felt firm upon palpation (the doctor mentioned it was due to excessive edema).
Recently, it has become softer.
The patient has taken antibiotics three times without improvement and has visited the emergency department.
The doctor inquired about fever (the patient had just finished antibiotics) or other symptoms, and blood tests showed no signs of infection.
After reviewing images, the doctor concluded it was edema.
During recent cleaning, the patient noticed purulent blood, and there was a small rupture at the previously swollen area.
Upon squeezing, there was continuous purulent blood, and after squeezing until there was no more white pus, it turned into bloody fluid, but there is still some redness and swelling (it has softened, and slight pressure causes some bloody fluid to emerge).
The area has been cleaned with iodine and bandaged.
Currently, there is no fever or any other symptoms, and the patient is not taking antibiotics but is on diuretics.
Should the patient seek medical attention? (The patient has limited mobility and has been bedridden for a long time.)

Aruba, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/01/09

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It is best to seek medical attention, as there is currently a wound and there is a concern about recurrence.
You should pay attention to keeping the area clean and dry, and if it gets wet, it should be disinfected.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/01/09

More Info

Given your situation, it is crucial to address the concerns regarding the right testicle abscess, especially considering your long-term bedridden status and diabetes. The symptoms you describe—redness, swelling, and the presence of pus and blood—indicate that there may be an ongoing infection or a significant complication that requires medical attention.

When to Seek Medical Help
1. Presence of Pus or Blood: The fact that you have observed pus and blood coming from the area is a significant concern. This suggests that there may be an active infection or a rupture of an abscess. Even if you do not have a fever, the presence of these symptoms warrants immediate medical evaluation.

2. Change in Symptoms: You mentioned that the swelling has changed from being hard to soft and that you have a small opening. This change can indicate that the abscess may be draining, but it can also signify that the infection is worsening or spreading. Any change in the nature of the swelling, especially if it becomes softer and begins to drain, should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider.

3. Diabetes Considerations: As a diabetic patient, you are at a higher risk for infections and complications. Diabetes can impair your immune response, making it more difficult for your body to fight infections. Therefore, any signs of infection, such as the ones you are experiencing, should be taken seriously.

4. Ongoing Symptoms: If you notice any new symptoms, such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or fever, you should seek medical help immediately. Even without fever, the presence of pus and blood is a red flag.

5. Inability to Manage Symptoms: If you find that you cannot manage the symptoms at home, such as controlling the drainage or if the area becomes increasingly painful, it is essential to seek medical assistance.

Recommended Actions
- Visit the Emergency Room or Urgent Care: Given the symptoms you have described, it would be prudent to seek immediate medical attention. An emergency room or urgent care facility can provide a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies if necessary, to determine the extent of the abscess and any potential complications.

- Consult a Specialist: If possible, a urologist or a surgeon specializing in abscess management may be able to provide targeted treatment options, which could include drainage of the abscess or surgical intervention if necessary.

- Antibiotic Therapy: Since you have already taken antibiotics without improvement, it is essential for a healthcare provider to reassess your treatment plan. They may need to prescribe a different antibiotic or consider other interventions.

- Wound Care: Continue to keep the area clean and covered, but avoid excessive manipulation of the site. Proper wound care is crucial to prevent further infection.

Conclusion
In summary, your symptoms indicate that you should seek medical help as soon as possible. The presence of pus and blood, along with your underlying health conditions, necessitates a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Do not delay in seeking care, as prompt treatment can prevent further complications and promote better outcomes.

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