Spleno-gonadal fusion.

Hock Beng CHUA

Department of Surgery, RIPAS Hospital, Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam.

ABSTRACT

Spleno-gonadal fusion is a rare malformation consisting of an abnormal connection between the spleen and the gonad. Spleno-gonadal fusion has been classified into two types: continuous and discontinuous. The majority of the cases present as a scrotal mass, scrotal tenderness and for suspicion of testicular pathology. Some are incidental findings at the time of herniotomy or orchiodopexy. About 25% of the reported cases of continuous spleno-gonadal fusion have associated anomalies. None of these anomalies has been reported in the discontinuous spleno-gonadal fusion. An incidental case of discontinuous spleno-gonadal fusion in a three year old boy after a patent processus vaginalis ligation procedure is reported.

Keywords:  Orchiectomy, spleen, spleen abnormalities, testicular neoplasm

Correspondence: CHUA HB. Department of General Surgery, RIPAS Hospital, Brunei Darussalam. E mail: chbtln@hotmail.com

Brunei Int Med J. 2011; 7 (2): 101-103