title: Histology of the fertile and infertile testis.
abstract: This article has reviewed the diagnostic value of testicular biopsy in the evaluation of male infertility. In order to optimize the interpretation of morphologic findings, it is essential that a full medical and occupational history and careful hormonal evaluation be performed. A karyotype may be indicated in some cases. The pathologist has the opportunity to render a diagnostic opinion based on examination of seminiferous tubules and interstitium and correlated with the results of the history, physical examination, and laboratory studies. A rapid quantitative method is available for determining the likelihood that a significant epididymal obstruction exists that may be relieved surgically.
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Wheeler
mesh_terms: D001706:Biopsy; D005298:Fertility / Q000502:physiology*; D006728:Hormones / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007248:Infertility, Male / Q000235:genetics / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D013737:Testis / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000254:growth & development / Q000473:pathology*
chemical_list: D006728:Hormones