EFSUMB Guidelines on Multiparametric Ultrasound of the Scrotum.

Area of Science:

• Radiology and Medical Imaging
• Urology
• Diagnostic Ultrasound

Background:

• Multiparametric ultrasound (MPUS) combines B-mode, Doppler, microvascular imaging, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and elastography.
• Existing diagnostic approaches for scrotal diseases can be enhanced by integrating these advanced ultrasound techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide evidence-based recommendations for the clinical application of MPUS in scrotal imaging.
• To standardize the use of MPUS for a wide range of scrotal conditions.
• To promote the integration of MPUS into routine clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Development of guidelines based on the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine framework.
• Systematic review of evidence for MPUS in various scrotal pathologies.
• Formulation of recommendations by the European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB).

Main Results:

• MPUS enhances diagnostic precision for scrotal diseases, including acute scrotal pain, trauma, infertility, focal and extratesticular lesions, cryptorchidism, and incidentalomas.
• Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is recommended as the reference method for vascular assessment.
• Elastography is identified as a valuable complementary tool for tissue characterization.

Conclusions:

• MPUS offers significant diagnostic value across diverse scrotal conditions.
• Standardized guidelines are crucial for optimizing MPUS utility in scrotal imaging.
• These recommendations aim to improve patient care through enhanced scrotal ultrasound diagnostics.