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Mumps Orchitis: Clinical Aspects and Mechanisms
Han Wu1,2, Fei Wang2, Dongdong Tang3
1Department of Immunology, Shenzhen University School of Medicine, Shenzhen, China.
Abstract:
The causative agent of mumps is a single-stranded, non-segmented, negative sense RNA virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family. Besides the classic symptom of painfully swollen parotid salivary glands (parotitis) in mumps virus (MuV)-infected men, orchitis is the most common form of extra-salivary gland inflammation. Mumps orchitis frequently occurs in young adult men, and leads to pain and swelling of the testis. The administration of MuV vaccines in children has been proven highly effective in reducing the incidence of mumps. However, a recent global outbreak of mumps and the high rate of orchitis have recently been considered as threats to male fertility. The pathogenesis of mumps orchitis remains largely unclear due to lack of systematic clinical data analysis and animal models studies. The alarming increase in the incidence of mumps orchitis and the high risk of the male fertility have thus become a major health concern. Recent studies have revealed the mechanisms by which MuV-host cells interact and MuV infection induces inflammatory responses in testicular cells. In this mini-review, we highlight advances in our knowledge of the clinical aspects and possible mechanisms of mumps orchitis.
Insights
Mumps orchitis, a complication of mumps virus infection in young men, poses a threat to male fertility. Understanding its pathogenesis is crucial for addressing rising global mumps outbreaks and protecting reproductive health.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Mumps virus (MuV), a Paramyxoviridae family member, causes mumps, characterized by parotitis.
- Mumps orchitis, inflammation of the testes, is a common extra-salivary gland manifestation, particularly in young adult men.
- While childhood vaccination is effective, recent global outbreaks highlight mumps orchitis as a threat to male fertility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on the clinical aspects of mumps orchitis.
- To explore the underlying mechanisms of mumps orchitis pathogenesis.
- To address the growing concern over mumps orchitis and its impact on male fertility.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent clinical data and animal model studies.
- Analysis of MuV-host cell interactions.
- Investigation of MuV-induced inflammatory responses in testicular cells.
Main Results:
- Mumps orchitis is a significant concern due to increasing incidence and potential for male infertility.
- Recent research has shed light on MuV-host cell interactions and inflammatory pathways in testicular cells.
- Systematic clinical data and animal model studies are still limited.
Conclusions:
- Mumps orchitis poses a serious threat to male fertility, necessitating further research.
- Understanding MuV pathogenesis in testicular cells is key to developing targeted interventions.
- Continued vigilance and research are essential to mitigate the impact of mumps orchitis.
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