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Computed tomography of the normal seminal vesicles
Computerized Radiology : Official Journal of the Computerized Tomography Society
|November 1, 1985
Summary
Computed tomography (CT) reveals normal seminal vesicle appearance in all patients. Seminal vesicle width and area decrease with age, while length remains consistent, offering insights into male reproductive anatomy.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Anatomy
- Urology
Background:
- Seminal vesicles are crucial male reproductive organs.
- Understanding their normal appearance on computed tomography (CT) is essential for accurate diagnosis.
- Previous studies have not comprehensively detailed CT-based seminal vesicle morphology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish the normal computed tomography (CT) appearance of seminal vesicles.
- To quantify seminal vesicle dimensions (length, width, area) in a healthy adult population.
- To investigate the correlation between seminal vesicle morphology and patient age.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of CT scans from 50 patients without pelvic pathology.
- Identification and measurement of seminal vesicle length, width, and calculated area.
- Statistical analysis to assess correlations with patient age and symmetry.
Main Results:
- Seminal vesicles were visualized in all 50 patients.
- Mean length: 3.1 ± 0.5 cm; Mean width: 1.5 ± 0.4 cm; Mean area: 3.6 ± 1.1 cm².
- Increasing age correlated with decreased seminal vesicle width (P<0.01) and area (P<0.05).
- Symmetry was observed in 67% of patients; shapes varied (ovoid, tubular, rounded).
- Punctate densities, likely the pudendal venous plexus, were seen in 96% of patients.
Conclusions:
- Computed tomography (CT) effectively visualizes normal seminal vesicles.
- Age-related changes in seminal vesicle size (width and area) are detectable via CT.
- These findings provide a normative reference for seminal vesicle imaging in clinical practice.