Coronavirus ‘may cause testicular pain’ in men, Havard researchers warn

From a high fever to a dry cough, coronavirus is known to come with a range of nasty side effects.

Now, researchers have warned about another rare side effect – testicular pain.

The researchers, from Harvard Medical School, have filed a case report about a 42-year-old man who tested positive for the virus, after going to hospital with a ‘stabbing pain’ in his testicles.

While doctors could find nothing wrong with his testicles, and CT scan showed damage in his lungs.

Two days later, the man was diagnosed with COVID-19.

Unfortunately, because the man had atypical symptoms, several other patients and doctors may have unknowingly been exposed to the virus.

In the study, published in The American Journal of Emergency Medicine, the researchers, led by Jesi Kim, wrote: “The patient described in this case report was not demonstrating any respiratory symptoms nor was the team aware that the patient was recently tested prior to his ED visit therefore, proper PPE was not worn by the treating HCW’s [healthcare workers].

“As a result, over 25 patients and HCW’s were notified of their potential exposure.”

While it remains unclear whether or not his testicular pain was like to the virus, other viruses have been known to affect the testicles.

Speaking to MailOnline, Dr Viney, a surgeon in Birmingham, said: “There are certain viruses that can affect the testicles, such as mumps.

“Only time will tell if COVID-19 also affects the testicles but it isn’t a symptom many of the patients I’ve dealt with have complained about.

“For most of them, their testicles are the least of their worries.” (Agency report)