Brucellosis of Testis and Epididymis: A Review of the Literature

Background: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease which can afflict a number of organs and tissues. Brucellosis epididymo-orchitis (BEO), a complication of human brucellosis, can lead to other complications. In brucellosis non-endemic areas, some clinicians may be unfamiliar regarding the disease entity which may lead to delay in the diagnosis.

Aims: To review the literature on BEO, in order to document its presentation, diagnosis, management and outcome following treatment.

Methods: Various internet data bases were used to obtain literature on BEO.

Results/Literature Review: BEO (epididymitis plus or minus orchitis) is a complication of brucella species which can be transmitted by direct contact through the respiratory tract, skin, or conjunctiva, and through the gastrointestinal tract after ingestion of unpasteurized milk/milk products or raw infected meat. BEO may in endemic areas affect 2 to 20% of patients with brucellosis but the disease can also be encountered sporadically globally in non-endemic areas. BEO may at times be bilateral. The presentation of BEO is non-specific and it may be mistaken for non-specific epididymo-orchitis or epididymitis or testicular tumour or abscess. Ultrasound and MRI scan findings are not specific to BEO. Diagnosis of BEO may be established by (a) history of contact, (b) cultures from blood/epididymal aspirations, (c) various types of laboratory studies including (I) Culture, (II) Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and (III) serology. Laboratory criteria for the diagnosis of Brucellosis is divided into (I) those for presumptive diagnosis and (II) those for confirmatory diagnosis: BEO can be effectively treated by means of combination chemotherapy for about six weeks but at times ochidectomy or drainage of testicular collection may be required for persistence of symptoms or suspicion of a tumour/testicular abscess. Relapses can occur therefore careful follow-up is required.

Conclusions: BEO can occur anywhere globally. A high index of suspicion is required from clinicians in order to establish early diagnosis. Most cases of BEO can be effectively treated with combination chemotherapy for about 6 weeks and triple antibiotic therapy would appear to be most effective and associated with absence or reduction of relapse.