Scrotal swellings in Sudanese patients: a surgical pathology study

Scrotal swellings are frequently encountered in surgical practice in the Sudan and other tropical countries and, because of the diversity of possible etiological agents, often pose problems in differential diagnosis. In this communication, 443 histologically verified scrotal swellings in Sudanese patients are surveyed as regards their causes and salient clinico-pathological features. Common lesions such as hydroceles have been considered as well as rarer but important conditions, including tuberculosis and Schistosomiasis. Clinicians practicing in tropical environments should consider these possibilities and the limitations of clinical diagnosis indicate biopsy confirmation. Since some conditions might respond to medical therapy, some orchidectomies could be avoided.