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International audience; Viral infections have haunted humankind since times immemorial. Overpopulation, globalization, and extensive deforestation have created an ideal environment for a viral spread with unknown and multiple shedding routes. Many viruses can infect the male reproductive tract, with potential adverse consequences to male reproductive health, including infertility and cancer. Moreover, some genital tract viral infections can be sexually transmitted, potentially impacting the resulting offspring's health. We have summarized the evidence concerning the presence and adverse effects of the relevant viruses on the reproductive tract (mumps virus, human immunodeficiency virus, herpes virus, human papillomavirus, hepatitis B and C viruses, Ebola virus, Zika virus, influenza virus, and coronaviruses), their routes of infection, target organs and cells, prevalence and pattern of virus shedding in semen, as well as diagnosis/testing and treatment strategies. The pathophysiological understanding in the male genital tract is essential to assess its clinical impact on male reproductive health and guide future research.

Background: The current outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, named coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19), is not the first well-known spillover of an animal originated virus to infect humans. However, one of the few to make such a fast jump in a powerful evolutionary shortcut. The incredible pattern of aggressiveness worldwide since the beginning of the outbreak is that up to 20% of those infected need hospitalization and 5% evolve to critical conditions, not limited to respiratory-related issues, but rather to systemic involvement. Objective: This study aims to summarize the current knowledge about the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the male genitourinary tract. Materials and methods: A narrative review was carried out to identify articles on the SARS-CoV-2 infection on the male genitourinary system. Results: Considerations were made about the molecular characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 and immune response to coronavirus. We discussed the influence of the virus on the urinary system, potential mechanisms of COVID-19- related acute kidney injury (AKI), and the role of cytokine release syndrome on the renal pathophysiology of the disease. In the male reproductive tract, it was discussed the testis' vulnerability to SARS-CoV-2 invasion and the possible adverse effects on its function and the seminal findings of COVID-19. Discussion and conclusion: During the COVID-19 pandemic, an international coordinated scientific effort must arise to understand the role of the urogenital system in the SARS-CoV-2 infection in the clinical setting.

The testis is a potential target organ for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Our study intended to investigate any testicular involvement in mild‐to‐moderate COVID‐19 men. We conduct a cross‐sectional study in 18 to 55‐year‐old men hospitalised for confirmed COVID‐19. A senior radiologist executed the ultrasound with multi‐frequency linear probe in all participants, regardless of any scrotal complaints. Exclusion criteria involved any situation that could impair testicular function. Statistical analysis compared independent groups, classified by any pathological change. Categorical and numerical outcome hypotheses were tested by Fisher's Exact and Mann–Whitney tests, using the Excel for Mac, version 16.29 (p 1.2 cm (p = .002). Two distinct epididymitis’ patterns were reported: (a) disseminated micro‐abscesses (n = 6) and (b) inhomogeneous echogenicity with reactional hydrocele (n = 5). Both patterns revealed increased epididymal head, augmented Doppler flow and scrotal skin thickening. The use of colour Doppler ultrasound in mild‐to‐moderate COVID‐19 men, even in the absence of testicular complaints, might be useful to diagnose epididymitis that could elicit fertility complications.