Echidna Splenule: A Case Study of Continuous Splenogonadal Fusion

Urology. 2024 Jan:183:209-211. doi: 10.1016/j.urology.2023.09.009. Epub 2023 Sep 28.

Abstract

Splenogonadal fusion (SGF) is a rare congenital anomaly of an aberrant accessory spleen-gonad connection. We present a rare case of continuous splenogonadal fusion in a full-term male with a left undescended testis, multiple congenital limb anomalies, and syndromic facies. Diagnostic laparoscopy revealed the "Echidna Splenule," a snake-like intraperitoneal splenule coursing from the spleen along the left paracolic region and engulfing an atrophic intra-abdominal testis preventing spontaneous descent and distally herniating into the left open internal inguinal ring. The atrophic testis and Echidna Splenule were resected. Splenogonadal fusion should be considered in children with left undescended testis and concomitant limb and facial anomalies.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Multiple* / diagnosis
  • Animals
  • Child
  • Cryptorchidism* / complications
  • Cryptorchidism* / diagnosis
  • Cryptorchidism* / surgery
  • Digestive System Abnormalities*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Scrotum
  • Spleen / abnormalities
  • Tachyglossidae*
  • Testis / abnormalities
  • Testis / diagnostic imaging
  • Testis / surgery