What is the chief complaint commonly reported by patients with testicular torsion?

Testicular torsion is a medical emergency characterized by the twisting of the spermatic cord, which cuts off blood supply to the testicle. The chief complaint most commonly reported by patients experiencing testicular torsion is severe testicular pain. This pain typically has a sudden onset, often described as sharp and is usually localized to one testicle. Patients may also report that the pain radiates to the lower abdomen or groin.

While swelling, nausea, and vomiting can accompany the condition—due to the pain or as a stress response from the body—these symptoms are not as defining as the primary complaint of severe testicular pain. Fever is not commonly associated with testicular torsion and may suggest infection or other conditions if present. Therefore, the notable and distinguishing characteristic leading patients to seek medical attention in cases of testicular torsion is the intense, acute pain experienced.