Unilateral orchitis-epididymitis and diffuse periorchitis in a dog due to β-haemolytic streptococcal infection

Abstract

Epididymitis can be associated with orchitis and periorchitis, and can be classified as acute or chronic, and of an infectious or non-infectious aetiology. This study aims to describe a case of orchitis-epididymitis and diffuse periorchitis due to β-haemolytic streptococcal infection. The dog presented at the veterinary service with an enlarged, hyperaemic scrotum with regional acute pain, lethargy and hyporexia. In the ultrasound exam, an abnormal amount of peritesticular anechoic fluid and enlargement of the left epididymis was observed. Treatment consisted of a bilateral orchiectomy and scrotal ablation. The histopathological exam indicated left orchitis-epididymitis and diffuse periorchitis, with neutrophilic inflammatory cell infiltrate and the presence of coccoid bacteria. The microbiological exam isolated β-haemolytic streptococci. Bilateral orchiectomy and the use of a specific antimicrobial was effective in treating the condition.