Brucella orchitis presenting as a testicular mass mimicking a testicular tumor: a rare case report

Abstract

Introduction: Brucella epididymo-orchitis is a complication that occurs in 5.7% of patients with brucellosis and can rarely mimic a testicular tumor. We here report a case of a 25-year-old man with a testicular brucellosis that presented as a testicular mass that responded to conservative treatment using antibiotic therapy. Case report: A 25-year-old patient presented with left testicular pain, abdominal pain, easy fatiguability, and feeling unwell. Physical examinations were normal. A testicular tumor was suggested by a scrotal color Doppler US scan and testicular MRI. However, tumor markers were all within the normal range. A serum Brucella agglutination test (Rose Bengal test) was done, and it was positive. The patient received anti-brucella antibiotics. An ultrasound scan 3 months later revealed complete recovery after completing antibiotic treatments. Discussion: Brucella orchitis can be determined based on the triad of serology, ultrasonography, and the presence of the common symptoms like fever, testicular pain, redness, and enlargement. The early diagnosis of this phenomenon is crucial due to the morbidity and complications that may be encountered. Moreover, it has several differential diagnoses, such as testicular tumor, epididymitis, trauma, torsion of the testis, and hematocele. Failure to obtain an adequate diagnosis, particularly if a testicular tumor is suspected, may result in unnecessary intervention like orchiectomy. Conclusion: Brucella orchitis is a complication of brucella infection that may mimic a testicular tumor. Several techniques of diagnosis are required for an accurate assessment.