A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis of Orchitis Research from 1980 to 2023

Abstract

Orchitis, an inflammation of the testes, presents significant implications for male fertility and has been a focal area of scientific inquiry over the past four decades. This study employs a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to assess the progression of global research on orchitis from 1980 to 2023. Drawing from a dataset of 1586 publications indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection, we uncover emerging patterns, collaborations, and pivotal works that have shaped the field. The United States, China, and Germany emerge as leading contributors, while the Journal of Urology stands out as a primary publishing avenue. The results highlight the increasing recognition of autoimmune responses, alongside infectious agents, as key contributors to orchitis. Moreover, molecules such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IFN-γ are identified as central to the disease's pathology. The dynamic interplay of testosterone and regulatory T cells is underscored as a determinant of the testicular immune milieu. Notably, disruptions in the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and germ cell apoptosis emerge as pivotal consequences of the condition. This analysis underscores the expansive and multidisciplinary nature of orchitis research, revealing a consistent growth in collaborative endeavors. In summary, our findings catalog the evolution of orchitis research, providing a consolidated perspective on past achievements and signposting future research avenues. Such insights are instrumental for researchers aiming to navigate the complexities of orchitis and its multifaceted impact on male reproductive health.

Keywords: Bibliometric analysis; Blood–testis barrier (BTB); Cytokines; Experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO); Male reproductive health; Orchitis; Testicular immune privilege; Testicular inflammation.