Chenghao Zhanghuang1,2,†
Jinrong Li1,†Na Long3,†Qiong Duan3,†Fengming Ji1Yucheng Xie4
Zhen Yang5*Bing Yan1,2*
- 1Department of Urology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- 2Yunnan Key Laboratory of Children’s Major Disease Research, Yunnan Province Clinical Research Center for Children’s Health and Disease, Kunming Children’s Hospital Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- 3Special Need Ward, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- 4Department of Pathology, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
- 5Department of Oncology, Yunnan Children Solid Tumor Treatment Center, Kunming Children’s Hospital, Children’s Hospital Affiliated to Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
Torsion of an enlarged epididymal cyst (EC) represents an uncommon yet critical differential diagnosis in acute scrotal emergencies. Large ECs, particularly those localized to the epididymal head, demonstrate diminished anatomical stability due to their superior positioning and increased mobility, rendering them susceptible to torsion under predisposing conditions. This mechanical disruption precipitates elevated intracystic pressure, compromised vascular perfusion, and subsequent infective complications, necessitating urgent surgical intervention. We present a case of a 12-year-old male who presented with left scrotal swelling and pain persisting for 48 h. Initial clinical evaluation suggested spermatic cord torsion concomitant with hydrocele, prompting emergency exploration. Intraoperative findings unexpectedly revealed a torsioned giant cyst (5.2 × 3.8 cm) originating from the left epididymal head. Successful detorsion followed by complete cyst excision was performed while preserving testicular integrity and epididymal architecture. Histopathological analysis confirmed the lesion as a mesonephric duct remnant cyst.
Introduction
Epididymal cysts (ECs) are benign cystic lesions frequently observed in adults but relatively uncommon in the pediatric population (1). Although the precise pathogenesis of ECs remains unclear, some studies suggest that congenital anomalies caused by hormonal disturbances during embryonic development may contribute to their formation (2). Most EC cases are asymptomatic and are typically detected incidentally through ultrasonography, requiring no intervention unless complications such as torsion, infection, or trauma occur, which may manifest as acute testicular pain necessitating surgical or medical management (1, 3). Notably, EC torsion represents an exceptionally rare clinical entity, with only 12 cases documented in the literature to date, to the best of our knowledge.
Case report
A 12-year-old boy was admitted for “left scrotal swelling and pain for 2 days.” He had intermittent left scrotal swelling and severe pain without obvious cause 2 days prior. He had no fever or vomiting. An ultrasound at a local hospital showed a cystic anechoic area above the left testis, suggesting hydrocele. The family declined surgery. His left scrotal redness, swelling, and pain worsened, leading to an emergency visit at our hospital. An ultrasound revealed a nodular image in the left spermatic cord, possibly due to torsion of a funicular hydrocele. He was admitted for “left scrotal swelling and pain pending investigation.”
On specialized examination, his left scrotum was swollen and slightly red, with a cystic mass near the testis that was tender, smooth, soft, and poorly mobile. The right testis was normal in size and without tenderness. Both testes had normal cremasteric reflexes. A B-ultrasound on 2024-12-4 showed: (1) A nodular image in the left spermatic cord (considering torsion); (2) A cystic mass in the left inguinal canal and scrotum (considering funicular hydrocele) measuring about 4.1 cm × 2.7 cm × 1.7 cm; (3) No obvious abnormalities in the right testis and epididymis (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Preoperative emergency inguinal and scrotal testicular ultrasound findings; (A) spermatic cord two-dimensional image shows a spiral sign, and CDFI shows spiral blood flow signals; (B) spermatic cord hydrocele; (C) spermatic cord torsion, but blood flow signals are visible in the spermatic cord and testis; (D) blood flow signals are visible in the epididymal head and testis.
His blood tests were normal. With no history of scrotal trauma or surgery, he was considered to likely have torsion of a funicular hydrocele. After excluding anesthesia contraindications, emergency left scrotal exploration was performed. Intraoperatively, the epididymal head was cystic and enlarged, about 4.5 cm × 3.0 cm × 2.0 cm, with a twisted pedicle of about 360°. The epididymal head was red with expanded vessels but no obvious ischemia, and the testicular blood supply was normal (Figures 2A,B). After informing the family, the cyst was excised using fine instruments, and the epididymal tissue was sutured to restore normal structure and fixed to the testis. A testicular fixation was also performed. Postoperative pathology showed a cystic structure with ciliated columnar epithelium and a fibromuscular wall, indicating a left EC and possibly a mesonephric remnant cyst (Figures 3A,B). He was discharged after 2 days with good wound healing. A 3-month follow-up ultrasound showed normal blood supply to both testes and epididymides (Figures 4A,B).
Figure 2. Intraoperative findings: (A) epididymal cyst torsion was confirmed during tunica vaginalis incision; (B) after reduction, a huge epididymal cyst with a long narrow pedicle was found; (C) complete dissection of giant cyst tissue; (D) the epididymis was sutured and fixed on the lateral side of the testis.
Figure 3. Postoperative histopathological examination; microscopically, a cystic wall-like structure is visible, with ciliated columnar epithelium lining the inner wall, and the cystic wall is composed of fibrous and smooth muscle tissue; (A) HE staining, 100×; (B) HE staining, 400×.
Figure 4. Postoperative follow-up inguinal and scrotal testicular ultrasound findings; (A) left testis, full shape, testis and epididymis have acceptable echo, and intra-testicular blood flow signals are visible; (B) comparative scanning of both testes: the left testis is slightly full, and blood flow signals are visible in both testes.
Discussion
The reported incidence of EC in children ranges from 5% to 20%, with prevalence increasing progressively with age (4). While commonly detected incidentally during routine scrotal ultrasonography as small cystic lesions, larger ECs may present as palpable cystic masses located superior to the testis on physical examination (5). The majority of pediatric EC cases remain asymptomatic, warranting conservative management. Notably, there is currently no established consensus regarding the management of incidentally discovered ECs during other testicular procedures. Spontaneous resolution occurs in up to 60% of cases, particularly when the cyst diameter is less than 3 mm (4–6).
Torsion of an EC represents an exceptionally rare clinical phenomenon that typically occurs when excessive mobility of an epididymal head cyst exists due to either laxity of the epididymo-testicular connection or anatomical variations (6). The differential diagnosis for EC torsion includes testicular torsion, epididymitis, torsion of testicular appendages, trauma, and incarcerated inguinal hernia. Additional considerations should encompass testicular tumors, idiopathic scrotal edema, and Henoch-Schönlein purpura (7, 8).
Scrotal ultrasonography serves as the diagnostic cornerstone, potentially revealing a large cystic epididymal lesion containing internal echoes and debris suggestive of hemorrhage or thrombosis. While identification of a twisted cystic pedicle provides pathognomonic evidence, this finding may not be consistently demonstrable (9). As reported by Schalamon et al., scrotal ultrasound demonstrates 84% accuracy in differentiating children with acute scrotal pain who require surgical intervention (10).
In this case, the patient presented with typical pain and scrotal erythema and swelling. Scrotal ultrasound revealed a hypoechoic cystic mass without blood flow in the left scrotum, and the patient's scrotal pain persisted. Given the possibility of testicular torsion, we decided to perform emergency surgery. Pediatric scrotal emergencies are often related to the testis, and their impact on future fertility is a major concern. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial to preserve the patient's fertility. Preoperative confirmation of testicular torsion should lead to immediate surgical exploration. However, if the diagnosis is epididymitis, testicular appendage torsion, or an EC, conservative treatment with intravenous fluids may be appropriate. For EC, scrotal puncture and aspiration can be considered to avoid traumatic surgery and better protect the patient's future quality of life and fertility. This highlights the significance of reporting such cases.
The youngest reported case of epididymal cyst (EC) torsion involved a 6-month-old infant, as described by Liolios et al. (11). Our systematic search of PubMed and Web of Science using the terms “epididymal cyst” AND “torsion” AND “children” identified 12 additional cases, establishing the present case as the 13th reported instance worldwide (Table 1).
Table 1. Case presentation of epididymal cyst with torsion.
Analysis of these 13 cases revealed consistent clinical patterns. Anatomic factors predominated, with 69% (9/13) of patients demonstrating congenital epididymal-testicular laxity or an elongated cyst pedicle that predisposed to abnormal mobility (2, 6, 7). These structural variations may be aggravated by pubertal hormonal changes [69.2% of cases occurred in 10–14-year-olds (7, 13)], potentially accelerating cyst enlargement. Notably, over 80% of torsioned cysts exceeded 3 cm in diameter (1, 3, 18), suggesting that increased mass elevates pedicle tension and torsion risk. A history of trauma or vigorous activity was documented in 38.5% (5/13) of cases (4, 14, 15), supporting mechanical stress as a contributory factor.
Doppler ultrasonography emerged as the primary diagnostic tool, consistently demonstrating anechoic cystic masses in the epididymal head (13/13), with wall thickening or septations in 61.5% (8/13) (3, 5). Torsion-specific features included absent intralesional flow (76.9%, 10/13) and the whirlpool sign (53.8%, 7/13) (1, 11), while preserved testicular perfusion (13/13) distinguished EC torsion from testicular torsion (6, 18). For indeterminate cases, follow-up imaging within 4–6 h is advised to evaluate dynamic changes (10). Laboratory parameters (complete blood count, urinalysis) were universally normal (13/13), helping exclude epididymitis or urinary infections (4, 7). Key differential diagnoses include testicular torsion (absent cremasteric reflex, testicular malposition), epididymitis (Prehn's sign positivity, inflammatory markers), and testicular appendage torsion (localized pain, hyperechoic nodule) (10, 16).
Based on these characteristic findings, we recommend that clinicians first obtain a detailed history focusing on trauma, strenuous physical activity, and prior scrotal masses. This should be followed by a comprehensive physical examination assessing testicular position, cremasteric reflex, and Prehn's sign. Doppler ultrasonography should be employed as the first-line diagnostic modality, with particular attention to cyst characteristics and testicular vascularity. In cases where EC torsion is strongly suspected or when testicular torsion cannot be definitively excluded, surgical exploration within 6 h is imperative to maximize testicular salvage potential (9, 19). Notably, among all reported EC torsion cases, none of the patients who underwent emergency surgery (12/13) developed testicular ischemia or long-term complications, underscoring the critical importance of timely intervention.
Thus, EC torsion should be considered a rare cause of pediatric acute scrotal pain, especially in patients with known EC or a history of trauma. For small, asymptomatic ECs, a conservative approach is recommended. Erikci et al. suggested selective surgery for ECs larger than 10 mm. However, we do not advocate surgery for all ECs over 10 mm, especially in adolescents; a more cautious approach is needed. The decision for surgery should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the patient's specific circumstances, including the severity of symptoms, the growth rate of the cyst, its impact on quality of life, and the presence of complications. For asymptomatic or mildly symptomatic ECs, a watchful waiting strategy with regular ultrasound monitoring is appropriate. Surgery is considered when ECs cause significant symptoms such as pain or psychological stress, or when they grow rapidly and affect testicular function and development. It is also crucial to accurately recognize the signs of scrotal emergencies to avoid misdiagnosing testicular torsion as EC, which could delay necessary surgery. Additionally, when ECs are incidentally found during other testicular surgeries, it is recommended to address them surgically if it does not increase the anesthesia burden on the child.
Conclusion
This study emphasizes EC torsion as a rare but important differential diagnosis in pediatric acute scrotal pain, distinct from testicular torsion and other scrotal conditions. Clinical examination and ultrasound are vital for diagnosis. Suspected testicular or EC torsion necessitates timely surgical exploration to prevent severe complications like testicular necrosis. The study also underscores the value of multidisciplinary collaboration in managing such complex cases, guiding future research towards more precise diagnostic criteria and treatment protocols.
Data availability statement
The original contributions presented in the study are included in the article/Supplementary Material, further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding authors.
Ethics statement
The studies involving humans were approved by the ethical committee of Kunming Children's Hospital (2021-03-002-K01). The studies were conducted in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. Written informed consent for participation in this study was provided by the participants' legal guardians/next of kin. Written informed consent was obtained from the individual(s), and minor(s)’ legal guardian/next of kin, for the publication of any potentially identifiable images or data included in this article.
Author contributions
CZ: Funding acquisition, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Software, Resources, Visualization, Formal analysis, Supervision, Conceptualization, Project administration, Validation, Investigation, Writing – review & editing, Data curation. JL: Data curation, Methodology, Conceptualization, Writing – original draft, Investigation. NL: Methodology, Writing – original draft, Data curation. QD: Writing – original draft, Investigation, Conceptualization. FJ: Writing – review & editing, Methodology, Project administration, Data curation. YX: Methodology, Conceptualization, Writing – review & editing. ZY: Resources, Validation, Project administration, Writing – review & editing. BY: Supervision, Methodology, Writing – review & editing, Validation, Resources, Project administration.
Funding
The author(s) declare that financial support was received for the research and/or publication of this article. This study was supported by Yunnan Education Department of Science Research Fund (No. 2023 J0295), Kunming City Health Science and Technology Talent “100″ training Project [No. 2024- SW (Lead)-7], and Kunming Medical Joint Project of Yunnan Science and Technology Department (No. 202301AY070001-108). The funding bodies played no role in the study's design and collection, analysis and interpretation of data, and writing the manuscript.
Conflict of interest
The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.
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The author(s) declare that no Generative AI was used in the creation of this manuscript.
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Keywords: epididymal cyst torsion, acute scrotum, mesonephric duct remnant, surgical misdiagnosis, ultrasonography
Citation: Zhanghuang C, Li J, Long N, Duan Q, Ji F, Xie Y, Yang Z and Yan B (2025) Torsion of a giant epididymal cyst in a pediatric patient: a rare cause of acute scrotal pain—case report and literature review. Front. Pediatr. 13:1605254. doi: 10.3389/fped.2025.1605254
Received: 4 April 2025; Accepted: 12 May 2025;
Published: 26 May 2025.
Edited by:
Xiaokun Lin, Second Affiliated Hospital & Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, ChinaReviewed by:
Andres Gomez Fraile, University Hospital October 12, SpainDonglai Hu, Jinhua Central Hospital, China
Copyright: © 2025 Zhanghuang, Li, Long, Duan, Ji, Xie, Yang and Yan. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY). The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.
*Correspondence: Zhen Yang, MTU5MjUyMDI0NjZAMTYzLmNvbQ==; Bing Yan, eWJ3Y3lAMTYzLmNvbQ==
†These authors have contributed equally to this work and share first authorship