Ram breeding soundness - some common scrotal and testicular abnormalities

Epididymitis caused by Actinobacillus seminis/Histophilus ovis (gram-negative pleomorphic organisms) is a major cause of ram infertility in the UK. Diagnosis is confirmed by sequential ultrasonographic examination of the pampiniform plexus, testicle and tail of the epididymis undertaken as the 5 MHz linear scanner head is moved distally. In cases of unilateral epididymitis, hemicastration is generally ill-advised because of the extensive adhesions between the inflamed (and abscessed) epididymis and the vaginal tunics. Sperm granulomas may develop over several years after vasectomy but do not affect the sexual behaviour of the vasectomised ram; ultrasonographically there is testicular atrophy and marked enlargement of the tail of the epididymis such that the scrotal contents have a bi-lobed appearance.