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Testicular microlithiasis, a premalignant condition: prevalence, histopathologic findings, and relation to testicular
M Derogee1, R F Bevers, H J Prins
1Department of Urology, Central Military Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Objectives:
To perform a retrospective analysis concerning the prevalence of testicular microlithiasis (TM). In patients with TM, the association of TM with testicular tumor, histopathologic findings, and follow-up were studied.
Methods:
During a 6-year period at the Central Military Hospital or the University Medical Center in Utrecht, The Netherlands, ultrasonography of the testis was performed in 1535 patients. Patient records, ultrasound images, and histopathologic specimens were reviewed. Follow-up was performed in patients with TM.
Results:
In 63 patients (4.1%), with a mean age of 35.4 years (range 19 to 74), TM was diagnosed at ultrasonography. In 29 of these patients (46%), a concomitant testicular tumor was diagnosed. A statistically significant correlation was found between TM and the presence of a testicular tumor (P <0.001; chi-square test). No significant correlation was found concerning the respective positions of the TM and the tumor in the testis, type of calcification, and histologic type of the tumor. In 34 patients, TM was found without a malignancy at diagnosis (mean age 39.2 years; range 19 to 69). Follow-up was possible in 31 patients. During the follow-up period (median 61.8 months), 1 patient developed a testicular tumor.
Conclusions:
A correlation was found between TM and testicular tumor. Because an increasing number of studies have reported patients with TM who developed a testicular tumor, TM should be regarded as a premalignant condition, which necessitates follow-up. Urologists should consider testis biopsy in patients with TM.
Insights
Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is linked to testicular tumors. Patients with TM require follow-up and may benefit from testis biopsy, as TM is considered a premalignant condition.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is a condition characterized by the presence of small calcifications within the testes.
- The association between TM and testicular malignancy requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of TM in a patient cohort.
- To investigate the correlation between TM and testicular tumors.
- To evaluate histopathologic findings and follow-up outcomes in patients diagnosed with TM.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 1535 patients undergoing testicular ultrasonography over a 6-year period.
- Review of patient records, ultrasound images, and histopathologic specimens.
- Follow-up was conducted for patients diagnosed with TM.
Main Results:
- TM was diagnosed in 4.1% of patients (63 individuals).
- A statistically significant correlation was observed between TM and the presence of testicular tumors (P <0.001).
- Of the 63 patients with TM, 29 (46%) had a concomitant testicular tumor. One patient developed a tumor during follow-up.
Conclusions:
- A significant correlation exists between testicular microlithiasis and testicular tumors.
- TM should be considered a premalignant condition warranting regular follow-up.
- Testis biopsy may be indicated for patients diagnosed with TM.