Is procalcitonin valuable in the differential diagnosis of testicular torsion and epididymo-orchitis

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the efficacy of procalcitonin [PCT] in the differential diagnosis of testicular torsion and epididymo-orchitis. This experimental study was performed in the research laboratory of Dicle University, School of Medicine, Diyarbakir, Turkey between March and June 2008. The study included 24 male rats randomized equally in 3 groups sham, epididymo-orchitis, and torsion groups. Blood samples were obtained from all rats at the beginning of the study. After torsion and infection occurred in the testes, new blood samples were obtained for PCT measurement. Then, all the right testes of the rats were excised for histopathological evaluation. The Wilcoxon signed test was used for statistical evaluation. Pre- and post PCT levels were statically compared, and PCT levels were significantly higher in the epididymo-orchitis group. Procalcitonin could be an easy, fast, and safe marker for use in the differential diagnosis of testicular torsion and epididymo-orchitis