TB Research

Unilateral testicular abscess: A rare manifestation of late-stage reactivation of extrapulmonary tuberculosis

Anna Colarieti, Giovanni Burgio, Anna Carmen Leonetti, Davide Fabbricatore, Silvia Attanasio, Alessandro Carriero

Urology Case Reports · 2025-02

Abstract

Genitourinary tuberculosis accounts for 8–15 % of cases of extrapulmonary tuberculosis, with the testis being an infrequent site of involvement, seen in 3 % of individuals with genital tuberculosis. Testicular tuberculosis often presents with symptoms that mimic those of other testicular conditions, including neoplasms, infections and testicular torsion. We report the case of a 51-year-old male with a history of tuberculosis 11 years prior, who presented with left testicular pain, swelling, and an ulcer. Initial ultrasound findings suggested were unclear and only the histopathological examination ultimately confirmed a diagnosis of testicular tuberculosis. The patient was treated with complete clinical resolution. • Testicular tuberculosis is a rare manifestation of genital tuberculosis. • Ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic tool for evaluating testicular pathology. • Early diagnosis and appropriate anti-tuberculosis therapy can lead to favorable.

MeSH terms

  • Medicine
  • Tuberculosis
  • Abscess
  • Stage (stratigraphy)
  • Extrapulmonary tuberculosis
  • Ocular tuberculosis
  • Surgery
  • Pathology