[Splenogonadal fusion]

Area of Science:

• Reproductive medicine
• Surgical pathology
• Developmental biology

Background:

• Splenogonadal fusion is a rare congenital anomaly.
• It involves the abnormal connection of splenic tissue to the gonads.
• This condition is often asymptomatic and incidentally discovered.

Observation:

• A 23-year-old male presented with a right paratesticular mass.
• Imaging revealed a homogeneous, isoechoic mass adjacent to the testicle.
• Tumor markers for germ cell tumors were negative.

Findings:

• Surgical excision confirmed the mass as splenogonadal fusion.
• This case represented the discontinuous form, lacking direct splenic connection.
• Splenic tissue was found adjacent to the testicle without a connecting cord.

Implications:

• Splenogonadal fusion can mimic testicular and paratesticular masses.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial, particularly in pediatric and urological practices.
• Understanding this anomaly aids in differential diagnosis and appropriate patient management.