Splenogonadal fusion: a case report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Congenital Anomalies
• Histopathology

Background:

• Accessory splenic tissue is common, usually near the spleen.
• Rarely, ectopic splenic tissue occurs in unusual sites like the scrotum.
• Splenogonadal fusion, first described in 1913, is a rare cause of scrotal anomalies.

Observation:

• An infant presented with a scrotal mass and discoloration.
• Imaging showed a mass originating from the epididymis, without testicular infiltration.
• Histopathology confirmed intratesticular ectopic splenic tissue.

Findings:

• The scrotal mass was diagnosed as splenogonadal fusion.
• Surgical exploration and excision were performed without damaging the testis.
• Histopathological evaluation confirmed the presence of splenic tissue.

Implications:

• Splenogonadal fusion should be considered in the differential diagnosis of testicular swelling.
• Accurate diagnosis can prevent unnecessary radical orchiectomy.
• Avoiding orchiectomy preserves reproductive and psychological well-being.