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[Unexplained male infertility and testicular microlithiasis]
P Turchi1, M L Sarteschi, R Benelli
1Servizio di Andrologia, UO di Urologia, Azienda USL 4 Prato.
Summary
Testicular microlithiasis, a rare finding in infertile men, was identified in 0.8% of cases during routine ultrasounds. This highlights the importance of scrotal ultrasound in evaluating male infertility.
Area of Science:
- Andrology
- Radiology
- Urology
Background:
- Male infertility affects a significant portion of the population.
- Early detection of scrotal abnormalities is crucial for effective management.
- Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is a condition characterized by calcifications within the testes.
Observation:
- A study was conducted on 250 consecutive infertile men at the Andrology Service of Prato Hospital.
- Ultrasound examinations were performed during the initial patient visit to assess scrotal structures.
- The examination evaluated the pampiniform plexus, epididymis, and testes for abnormalities.
Findings:
- 106 positive sonographic records (42.4%) for scrotal diseases were identified.
- Two cases of testicular microlithiasis were detected, representing 0.8% of all examinations and 1.7% in the last twelve months.
- The incidence of TM in this cohort was lower than reported in existing literature.
Implications:
- The findings underscore the value of routine ultrasound in male infertility assessment, even without specific indications.
- Clinical management of TM is challenging due to treatment uncertainties and potential cancer risk.
- A proposed classification system and long-term follow-up with periodical sonographic controls (6-12 months) are recommended for precise monitoring.