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Testicular Disorders in Equids: A Case Series
Giuseppe Catone1, Valentina Palmieri1, Giada Giambrone1
1Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|August 13, 2026
Summary
Equine testicular disorders are diverse, impacting stallion careers. This study reviews 57 cases, detailing neoplastic, developmental, infectious, and parasitic conditions for improved veterinary diagnosis and management.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Reproductive Biology
- Equine Science
Background:
- Equine testicular disorders significantly affect stallion breeding longevity.
- Stud farm veterinarians require comprehensive knowledge of these conditions for effective management.
- A wide spectrum of testicular abnormalities necessitates thorough diagnostic approaches.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively analyze 57 cases of equine testicular abnormalities.
- To provide a guide for veterinary practitioners on diagnosis and management.
- To detail the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and outcomes of various testicular diseases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 57 stallions and donkeys.
- Review of clinical presentations, diagnostic techniques, and treatment outcomes.
- Inclusion of histopathologic descriptions for definitive diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Identified 57 cases including neoplasia (seminoma, Sertoli, Leydig cell tumors), hypoplasia, disorders of sexual development (DSDs), cryptorchidism, monorchidism, degeneration (including steroid-induced), torsion, hydroceles, periorchitis, sarcoid, parasitic orchitis, infectious epididymitis, ectopic adrenal tissue, and ischemic necrosis.
- Neoplasia and cryptorchidism were significant findings.
- Rare conditions like cystic ectasia and post-surgical necrosis were observed.
Conclusions:
- Equine testicular diseases are varied, encompassing neoplastic, developmental, degenerative, infectious, and parasitic origins.
- Many conditions can coexist and may go unnoticed until advanced.
- Accurate histopathology is crucial for definitive diagnosis and effective case management in equine practice.
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