Could I have Brucellosis and not know it?

[Shifty]

Hi I have some symptoms of this infection. I have sweats, pain in testicles, fatigue, but my symptoms ar more chronic. I have been treated for epididymytis twice in the last 2 years and my doctor can't explain why it comes back. All STD's have been ruled out. I have pain in my mid to lower spine and also chest pain. I am a hunter and also have been around kennels about 15 years ago. Is brucellosis something that I could have had for years and not know it or is it an infection I would definetely know I had. Thanks

[John Kenyon, CNA]

Hello -

Yes, you absolutely could have brucellosis, given the chronic symptoms you describe, as the disease sometimes presents this way instead of acutely. Given your background and exposure to animals, this may well explain your recurrent symptoms. It would certainly be worth testing for it. It can be found in blood cultures or via antibodies in the blood, or sometimes by bone-marrow biopsy if bloodwork is inconclusive. If positive for it, brucellosis can be treated, usually by long-term combination antibiotic therapy.

I hope this is helpful. Please follow up with us as needed.