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Testicular microlithiasis: association with male infertility
R I Aizenstein1, D DiDomenico, A C Wilbur
1Department of Radiology, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago, USA.
Journal of Clinical Ultrasound : JCU
|May 8, 1998
Summary
Testicular microlithiasis (TM) was found in 2.8% of infertile men with abnormal semen. This condition may be linked to other scrotal issues and variable impacts on fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Urology
- Andrology
Background:
- Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is characterized by multiple echogenic foci within the testes.
- The prevalence and clinical significance of TM in infertile men with abnormal semen require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of testicular microlithiasis (TM) in a cohort of infertile men presenting with abnormal semen parameters.
- To explore potential associations between TM and other scrotal pathologies in this patient group.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of scrotal sonography records for 180 consecutive infertile men with abnormal semen.
- Evaluation for TM, varicocele, testicular masses, and history of cryptorchidism.
Main Results:
- Testicular microlithiasis (TM) was identified in 5 out of 180 patients (2.8%).
- Three patients with TM had concurrent varicoceles; two had a history of testicular maldescent.
- Two of the five patients with TM subsequently achieved fertility.
Conclusions:
- The observed frequency of TM in infertile men with abnormal semen suggests a potentially higher prevalence than previously reported.
- The severity of hypospermatogenesis in TM patients may be influenced by testicular dysgenesis and coexisting scrotal conditions like varicocele or cryptorchidism.