Testicular microlithiasis: imaging appearances and pathologic correlation.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the spectrum of sonographic findings, clinical implications, and pathologic correlation in patients with testicular microlithiasis (TM).


METHODS
The cases of 42 patients with the characteristic appearance of TM on sonograms were retrospectively evaluated for the number, pattern, and distribution of echogenic foci and for associated intratesticular abnormalities. Medical records and pathologic reports were reviewed.


RESULTS
Considerable variation was found in the number and distribution of occurrences of TM (five to 60 echogenic foci per transducer field). In some patients, peripheral clustering was seen. Most patients demonstrated side-to-side symmetry, but asymmetric distribution was seen in eight patients and unilateral foci were seen in one patient. In 17 patients, a germ cell neoplasm was seen. One additional patient had a focal lesion that was proved to be an infarct.


CONCLUSIONS
TM has a characteristic sonographic appearance. Because of the 40% occurrence of primary testicular neoplasm in association with it, TM cannot continue to be considered a benign finding.
Backus
M L
ML
Department of Radiology, Group Health Cooperative, Tacoma, Wash.
Mack
L A
LA
Middleton
W D
WD
King
B F
BF
Winter
T C
TC
True
L D
LD
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002137:Calculi / Q000150:complications / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013733:Testicular Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D013736:Testicular Neoplasms / Q000150:complications; D014463:Ultrasonography