Testicle cancer vs epididymitis: Dwayne Johnson's diagnosis opens up a bigger conversation

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, the Jumanji star let his guard down on his health, including a recent cancer scare in an interview with the Esquire magazine on June 11.The Golden Globe-nominated actor shortly before a press event of his upcoming film, “Jumanji: Open World” where he had to perform publicly alongside Kevin Hart and Jack Black in that public forum, revealed that he discovered a lump on one of his testicles during a shower.But addressing the issue he said, "By the way: I'm fine. But I didn't know that then, and the thing was really painful.”The 54-year-old Dwayne, hid the whole incident from his wife, Lauren Hashian."I didn't want to worry her before I knew if it was anything to even worry about," he said.

Does Dwayne Johnson actually have cancer?

According to USA Today, Dwayne Johnson actually doesn't have cancer. When he visited his doctor for a check up, it was discovered that it was actually epididymitis.

Although the doctor did not give an immediate response and acknowledged that it could be a case of testicular cancer.He was instructed to go for an ultrasound test immediately after wrapping his “Jumanji” event."So, I had to live with that for those 24 hours, not knowing," Johnson recalled, later adding that he's "OK" now. "And I had to be on all day, joking around, making speeches.”The ultrasound showed no signs of cancer which made him relieved.

Johnson is quite busy with the promotion of his two upcoming projects: the live-action Moana film, scheduled for release this year, and Jumanji: Open World.

What exactly Dwayne is suffering from?

Johnson has been one of the biggest WWE stars whose health background is supposed to be extremely strong. But everyone has their weak moments and so is his. As doctors diagnosed Johnson is suffering from epididymitis. But what exactly is it?According to the National Institute of Health, epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis, a tubular structure on the testis where sperms mature.

Epididymitis is a relatively common condition that is easily confused with testicular torsion.Epididymitis is managed medically, whereas testicular torsion is a surgical emergency. This activity reviews the presentation, evaluation, and management of epididymitis and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in managing patients with this condition.Epididymitis can occur in men of any age, though the majority of cases of epididymitis occurs in males ages 20 to 39 and are most often associated with a sexually transmitted disease. Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhea account for approximately 50% of cases of epididymitis associated with chlamydia and gonorrhea in males less than 39 years of age

The causes

In males prior to sexual maturity, epididymitis may still be caused by bacterial infections, but it is more common that epididymitis occurs as a result of an inflammatory process, such as repetitive activities like sports (e.g.,

running, jumping).Though rare, chemical epididymitis may occur as a result of exercising or having sexual intercourse with a full bladder, resulting in a retrograde flow of urine.Also, epididymitis may occur as a result of certain medications, namely amiodarone used in the treatment of cardiac dysrhythmia. Lastly, viral infections, such as mumps virus, can result in epididymitis or epididymo-orchitis.

Testicular cancer vs epididymitis

According to the Mayo Clinic, testicular cancer is most commonly exhibited as a painless lump or swelling in one testicle.

In these conditions, although some people may also experience a dull ache, heaviness in the scrotum, or mild discomfort.On the other hand, epididymitis is an inflammation of the epididymis that is usually caused by a bacterial infection and is characterised by sudden testicular pain, tenderness, redness, swelling, and sometimes fever, chills, painful urination, or penile discharge.Both the conditions contribute to swelling, but testicular cancer is generally painless whereas epididymitis comes with acute pain and signs of infection.Since their symptoms can collide, healthcare experts recommend seeking prompt medical evaluation for any new testicular lump, persistent swelling, or pain, with a physical examination and scrotal ultrasound helping to distinguish between the two conditions.So the two conditions are very distinct from each other having somewhat similar symptoms.