Epididymitis in children and adolescents on clean intermittent catheterisation.

The records of 119 children and adolescents on clean intermittent catheterisation (CIC) were reviewed to assess the incidence and predisposing factors, if any, of epididymo-orchitis. CIC had been performed for a total of 448 patient years with a mean of 4.5 years (range 3 months to 19 years). Of the evaluable 99 patients, 10 suffered attacks of epididymo-orchitis after commencing CIC. There was an equal incidence on both sides. Three patients had recurrent attacks. Epididymitis occurred at the rate of 1 episode for 10 patient years. Those who had neuropathic bladders and more than 2 symptomatic urinary tract infections annually had a higher incidence. Prophylactic antibiotics did not reduce the incidence but long-term specific antibiotic therapy may prevent further attacks. Vasectomy and orchidectomy had to be done in 2 patients for recurrent attacks and intractable sepsis.