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Testicular microlithiasis and associated testicular malignancies in childhood: a systematic review
Janne S Suominen1, Wajid B Jawaid, Paul D Losty
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Alder Hey Children, NHS Foundation Trust, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Paediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
Insights
Pediatric testicular microlithiasis (TM) data quality is poor, warranting caution. While TM is linked to testicular cancer, active screening needs more evidence, but self-examination is advised.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is a condition characterized by multiple small calcifications within the testicles.
- Its prevalence and significance in the pediatric population require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review existing literature on pediatric TM.
- To assess the association between TM and testicular malignancy in children.
- To propose clinical guidelines for managing pediatric TM.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published studies.
- Evaluation of outcome data related to pediatric TM.
- Analysis of the association between TM and testicular neoplasms.
Main Results:
- Evidence regarding pediatric TM is of poor quality, necessitating cautious interpretation.
- A link between TM and testicular neoplasms exists, though the incidence is low (<5%).
- Robust evidence is lacking to support widespread active screening programs for pediatric TM.
Conclusions:
- Clinical decisions for pediatric TM patients should consider the limitations of current evidence.
- Testicular self-examination is recommended for all individuals diagnosed with TM.
- Further high-quality research is needed to guide screening strategies.
Abstract:
The aim was to perform a systematic review to evaluate the published data on testicular microlithiasis (TM) in the pediatric population and to explore the association of TM with testicular malignancy as well as to propose guidelines to aid decision making on pediatric patients with TM. Outcome data for pediatric TM should be interpretated with caution due to the poor quality evidence available. Whilst the link with testicular neoplasms is undisputed (<5%) active screening programmes require robust evidence to support their wider deployment. Testicular self-examination though would appear advisable for all patients with testicular microlithiasis.
