What condition occurs when a testicle twists the spermatic cord?

Testicular torsion occurs when the spermatic cord becomes twisted, compromising the blood supply to the testicle. This emergency condition typically presents with sudden onset of severe scrotal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can lead to ischemia of the testicle if not treated promptly, as the compromised blood flow can result in tissue necrosis. Immediate surgical intervention is often required to untwist the cord and restore blood flow, or to remove the affected testicle if it has become nonviable.

Other choices such as renal colic, hernia, and urinary tract infections involve different anatomical structures and pathophysiological processes. Renal colic refers to pain caused by kidney stones, a hernia involves tissue protruding through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles, and a urinary tract infection pertains to an infection in the urinary system. Each of these conditions presents with distinct symptoms and requires different treatment approaches.