Omental mass combined with indirect inguinal hernia leads to a scrotal mass: A case report

BACKGROUND: Primary omental tumors are uncommon, and omental fibromas account for 2% of these tumors. Due to the low incidence of omental fibromas and the limited relevant literature, it is challenging for clinicians to make an accurate diagnosis of this condition, especially before surgery. CASE SUMMARY: A 30-year-old man was admitted to the hospital because of a left epididymal mass with vague discomfort for more than 1 mo. A physical examination was performed, and the findings showed that the epididymal mass may have entered the abdominal cavity. Pelvic computed tomography was performed in our hospital and revealed a left inguinal hernia with a mass in the hernial contents, and no masses were found in the left epididymis. A traditional inguinal hernia incision was made. Intraoperative hernia contents were found to be of the greater omentum, and a 2.5 cm-diameter mass was found at the distal end of the greater omentum. The scrotum and epididymis did not exhibit other masses. Then, the mass of the greater omentum was excised. Intraoperative frozen pathological examination suggested a spindle cell tumor. The postoperative pathological examination suggested that the mass was an omental angiofibroma. Postoperatively, the patient recovered well and was discharged. Outpatient re-examinations were performed at 1 mo and half a year after the operation and showed no obvious abnormalities. CONCLUSION: Due to the low morbidity rate associated with and latent nature of omental tumors, these tumors are difficult to diagnose preoperatively; thorough medical history taking, detailed physical examinations, and necessary imaging auxiliary examinations can help clinicians diagnose and treat these cases.