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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
05:25
Ultrasonography of the Adult Male Urinary Tract for Urinary Functional Testing
Published on: August 14, 2019
Testicular microlithiasis: a benign condition with a malignant association
R L Miller1, R Wissman, S White
1Department of Radiology, Ohio State University Hospitals, Columbus 43210, USA.
Journal of Clinical Ultrasound : JCU
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Testicular microlithiasis (TM), a condition seen on ultrasound, is linked to testicular cancer and infertility. Radiologists should suspect malignancy when TM is detected, recommending close follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Urology
- Oncology
Background:
- Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is a condition characterized by small calcifications within the testes.
- It is typically diagnosed using ultrasound imaging.
- TM is often associated with both benign and malignant testicular conditions.
Observation:
- Echographically, TM presents as diffuse, punctate, hyperechoic foci within the testicular parenchyma.
- Over 80 cases of TM have been documented, with a significant association with testicular cancer and infertility.
Findings:
- A statistically significant association exists between TM and pathologically proven testicular cancer (p < 0.05).
- TM is also significantly associated with male infertility/subfertility (p < 0.05).
Implications:
- The presence of TM on ultrasound should increase radiologist suspicion for testicular malignancy.
- For patients without identified malignancy after initial evaluation (including CT scans), periodic scrotal ultrasound follow-up (6-12 months) is recommended.
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