Testicular microlithiasis: sonographic and clinical features.
Eleven cases of bilateral diffuse microlithiasis of the testes were evaluated sonographically. The presence of testicular microlithiasis was coincidental to the presence of testicular neoplasms (n = 2), nontesticular malignant lesion in the abdomen or chest (n = 2), subfertility (n = 2), varicocele (n = 1), epididymitis (n = 1), testicular maldescent (n = 1), scrotal trauma (n = 1), and transient scrotal pain (n = 1). Clinical follow-up suggested that testicular microlithiasis is an asymptomatic nonprogressive condition. Sonographic examination of testicular microlithiasis shows diffuse hyperechoic nonshadowing foci measuring 1-2 mm in diameter throughout both testes. The diagnosis of testicular microlithiasis was pathologically proved in five cases. In six cases, the diagnosis was made on the basis of the sonographic appearance (n = 6), clinical information and follow-up (n = 6), and radiologic demonstration of testicular microcalcifications (n = 3). The sonographic appearance of testicular microlithiasis is specific, and we believe that biopsy or orchiectomy in these cases is unnecessary.
Janzen
D L
DL
Department of Radiology, University of British, Vancouver, Canada.
Mathieson
J R
JR
Marsh
J I
JI
Cooperberg
P L
PL
del Rio
P
P
Golding
R H
RH
Rifkin
M D
MD
D000328:Adult; D002137:Calculi / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013733:Testicular Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000453:epidemiology; D013737:Testis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014463:Ultrasonography