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Nonpalpable testes in young boys: evaluation with MR imaging
R Kier1, S McCarthy, A T Rosenfield
1Department of Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510.
Radiology
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging aids in locating nonpalpable testes in boys. While MR imaging shows promise for identifying undescended testes, surgical exploration remains crucial when imaging is inconclusive.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Radiology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Urology
Background:
- Nonpalpable testes in pediatric patients present a diagnostic challenge.
- Accurate localization is essential for appropriate surgical management and to prevent complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively evaluate the efficacy of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in localizing nonpalpable testes in boys.
- To compare MR imaging findings with surgical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 24 boys (11 months to 6 years) with nonpalpable testes using MR imaging.
- Surgical follow-up for 15 nonpalpable testes in 14 patients.
- Analysis of MR imaging characteristics of scrotal and undescended testes relative to fat signal intensity.
Main Results:
- MR imaging correctly identified unilateral testicular absence in 6/7 prospective and 7/7 retrospective cases.
- Undescended testes were identified by MR imaging in 5/8 prospective and 7/8 retrospective cases.
- MR imaging demonstrated characteristic signal intensities for undescended testes, aiding in their differentiation.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging is a valuable tool for localizing nonpalpable testes, particularly for identifying absence.
- However, MR imaging is not sufficiently sensitive to rule out an undescended testis definitively.
- Surgical exploration or laparoscopy should not be deferred based solely on negative MR imaging findings.