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Nonpalpable intratesticular masses detected sonographically
C V Comiter1, C J Benson, C C Capelouto
1Department of Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
The Journal of Urology
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Impalpable testicular masses found via ultrasound are often malignant, including seminomas and nonseminomas. Young men with other masses should get scrotal ultrasounds, as testicular cancer may be present or have regressed.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Controversy exists regarding the clinical significance of impalpable testicular masses.
- Early detection of testicular tumors is crucial for effective treatment and improved patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the sonographic characteristics and pathological findings of impalpable testicular masses.
- To clarify the implications of these masses in clinical practice.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 3,019 scrotal ultrasound studies conducted between 1985 and 1994.
- Identification and pathological examination of 15 impalpable intratesticular masses.
Main Results:
- Pathological analysis revealed a high incidence of malignancy, including 5 seminomas and 6 nonseminomas.
- Other findings included 2 "burned-out" tumors, 1 lipoma, and 1 granuloma.
- The prevalence of malignancy underscores the importance of further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Impalpable intratesticular masses discovered via ultrasound are frequently malignant.
- Scrotal ultrasound is recommended for young men with unexplained retroperitoneal or visceral masses.
- Persistent scrotal pain warrants ultrasound evaluation due to potential association with testicular malignancy, even if primary cancer has regressed.