Genitourinary Involvement in Human Brucellosis: A Retrospective Analysis of Thirty Two Cases

Introduction: Brucellosis is zoonotic infection caused by Brucella bacteria. It is endemic in Turkey. Brucellosis can be followed by genitourinary complications in 2-20% of cases. The most common genitourinary complication in males is unilateral brucellar epididymo-orchitis (BEO). However, it can also rarely cause acute interstitial nephritis, pyelonephritis, prostatitis, focal and diffuse glomerulonephritis and renal abscess. The purpose of this study was to evaluate patients with genitourinary involvement brucellosis. Materials and Methods: Thirty-two patients diagnosed with brucellosis and with a history of pain or swelling in the testes, scrotal redness, and sensitivity during urination or renal complaints were evaluated retrospectively. Results: Mean age of patients was 41.71±14.56 years. The most common symptoms were lethargy, high fever, sweating, lack of appetite, scrotal swelling and scrotal redness. Left testicular swelling was present in 13 cases, right testicular swelling in nine and bilateral involvement in three. The most common laboratory findings were leukocytosis, and C-reactive protein (CRP), sedimentation (ESR), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) elevation. All cases were successfully resolved with medical treatment. Conclusion: Brucellosis must not be forgotten in genitourinary involvements, especially in endemic regions. Occupation, contact with animals and consumption of unpasteurized milk or milk products should be investigated at anamnesis. Antibiotic combinations are generally sufficient in treatment. Orchiectomy and other surgical procedures are rarely required.