Scrotal Hirudiniasis: The Mysterious Migration of a Leech Into the Scrotum: A Case Report

Hirudiniasis, or leech infestation, is a rare parasitic condition typically involving external skin or mucosal surfaces. We report a case of scrotal hirudiniasis, an 11 cm long leech discovered within the scrotal sac of a 15-year-old male. He initially developed hematuria due to periurethral leech attachment, which resolved following catheterization and bladder irrigation. A week later, he presented with acute scrotal pain and swelling. Ultrasound revealed a tubular, mobile structure near the left vas deferens. Surgical exploration identified an 11 cm leech within the tunica vaginalis, without any external entry wound or urethra-cutaneous fistula. Two plausible routes of entry are suggested: retrograde movement via the vas deferens or migration through perineal fascial planes following urethral breach. This case underscores the need to consider unusual parasitic causes in patients presenting with acute scrotum in endemic regions.

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Publication Details

Journal
Clinical Case Reports
Published
2026-04-01
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1002/ccr3.72544
Primary Topic
Leech Biology and Applications
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Scrotal Hirudiniasis: The Mysterious Migration of a Leech Into the Scrotum: A Case Report

Abdul Quadir, Pranto Chakroborty
Clinical Case Reports
Leech Biology and Applications
article

Scrotal Hirudiniasis: The Mysterious Migration of a Leech Into the Scrotum: A Case Report

Abdul Quadir, Pranto Chakroborty
article en

Abstract

Hirudiniasis, or leech infestation, is a rare parasitic condition typically involving external skin or mucosal surfaces. We report a case of scrotal hirudiniasis, an 11 cm long leech discovered within the scrotal sac of a 15-year-old male. He initially developed hematuria due to periurethral leech attachment, which resolved following catheterization and bladder irrigation. A week later, he presented with acute scrotal pain and swelling. Ultrasound revealed a tubular, mobile structure near the left vas deferens. Surgical exploration identified an 11 cm leech within the tunica vaginalis, without any external entry wound or urethra-cutaneous fistula. Two plausible routes of entry are suggested: retrograde movement via the vas deferens or migration through perineal fascial planes following urethral breach. This case underscores the need to consider unusual parasitic causes in patients presenting with acute scrotum in endemic regions.

Clinical Case ReportsVol. 14(4)
Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College (BD)
Openalex Percentile: Top 25%
Leech Biology and Applications
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