FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

What is the cause of scrotal swelling?

1. Infection only

2. Fluid accumulation, inflammation, or growth

3. Only due to trauma

4. Exposure to allergens

The correct answer is: Fluid accumulation, inflammation, or growth

Scrotal swelling can arise from a variety of factors, and the correct choice identifies the comprehensive causes of this condition. Specifically, scrotal swelling can stem from fluid accumulation, which may occur in conditions such as hydrocele, where fluid gathers around the testes. Inflammation is another contributing factor, often resulting from infections, such as epididymitis or orchitis, leading to the swelling of the scrotum. Additionally, growths like tumors or varicoceles can also result in scrotal swelling due to the presence of abnormal tissue or blood vessels. Other options in the question fall short because they each limit the scope of potential causes. For instance, suggesting infection only does not account for non-infectious causes like fluid buildup or tumors. Similarly, attributing scrotal swelling solely to trauma ignores other important etiologies such as infections or acumulative fluid conditions. Lastly, while exposure to allergens can lead to various allergic reactions in the body, it is not a predominant cause of scrotal swelling compared to the broader categories of fluid accumulation, inflammation, or growth. By acknowledging these multiple pathways, the correct answer highlights the multifaceted nature of scrotal swelling and the importance of considering various diagnoses during clinical assessment.