Nervous Supply to the Testes

There is extensive nervous supply to the testis and scrotum and pain felt in the scrotum may be referred from visceral or somatic structures.

The autonomic nerve supply of testis is supplied by the testicular plexus which orginates from the paraaortic ganglia. Ramus genitalis (a branch from the genitofemoral nerve) and the Ilioinguinal nerve supply the scrotal skin and muscles in the groin area.

Learning Bite

Conditions affecting the scrotum can cause referred pain to the abdomen. Conversely, pathology within the abdomen may cause referred pain to the scrotum. Males presenting with abdominal pain should always have their scrotum examined and vice versa.