Scrotal mass and unilateral lung masses with pleural effusion mimicking metastatic testicular malignancy: An unusual presentation of sarcoidosis

Abstract

Involvement of the genitourinary tract by sarcoidosis may present with a scrotal mass, mimicking infection or malignancy. Sarcoidosis is a systemic granulomatous disease that affects patients of both sexes worldwide. Sarcoidosis of the genitourinary tract is rare. We describe a case of a 33-year-old African-American man who presents with a scrotal mass, mediastinal mass, unilateral lung masses and pleural effusion mimicking testicular malignancy with pulmonary metastases. The histopathological examination of the right testis and lung biopsy revealed granulomatous inflammation consistent with sarcoidosis. Genitourinary sarcoidosis must be a diagnostic consideration, especially in an African- American patient with a scrotal mass. There is a possible association between sarcoidosis and testicular malignancy; hence, underlying malignancy should always be ruled out. Serum tumour markers, ACE, a biopsy of the accessible tissue and intraoperative frozen section analysis aid in establishing the diagnosis of sarcoidosis and leading to appropriate management. Copyright 2013 BMJ Publishing Group. All rights reserved.