Clinical Practice and
Referral Guidelines

Common Scrotal Problems

The objective of this guideline was to describe common scrotal and penile problems encountered in the pediatric population. Additionally the guideline provides recommendations to assist the pediatrician in the evaluation of these problems and to determine when a referral to a pediatric urologist is warranted.    

This guideline includes the following:

1. Description of common conditions including undescended testis, inguinal hernias and hydroceles, testicular torsion, epididymitis, varicocele, penile band, and redundant penile skin after circumcision;
2. Recommendations for evaluation and treatment, which may include, but not be limited to, laboratory evaluation, imaging, antibiotics, surgery and other treatment options; and
3. Referral to a pediatric urologist.*

*Referral to a pediatric urologist is appropriate up to the age of 18. After the age of 18, referral to an adult urologist is appropriate.   

If you are a physician and would like more information on the Clinical Practice and Referral Guideline for Common Scrotal and Penile Problems, please contact us at quality@kidshealthfirst.com

If you are a parent and concerned that your child may have an issue, please consult with your child’s pediatrician or primary care physician.

This guideline was developed in collaboration with a pediatric urologist from Georgia Pediatric Subspecialists. The recommendations in the guideline do not indicate an exclusive course of treatment. The intent is to build a consensus of care in the pediatric community and provide a framework for clinical decision-making. Last revised 6/2011.