Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 12, 2026

Povidone Iodine Rectal Preparation at Time of Prostate Needle Biopsy is a Simple and Reproducible Means to Reduce Risk of Procedural Infection
05:32

Povidone Iodine Rectal Preparation at Time of Prostate Needle Biopsy is a Simple and Reproducible Means to Reduce Risk of Procedural Infection

Published on: September 21, 2015

Lycopodium spores in transrectal ultrasound-guided core biopsies of the prostate

T C Andersen1, G W Jürgensen, E Christensen

  • 1Department of Surgery, Glostrup Hospital, Denmark.

Scandinavian Journal of Urology and Nephrology
|June 2, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Lycopodium clavatum (LC) spores in prostate biopsies were traced to condom coatings. Using LC spore-free condoms can prevent diagnostic confusion and prostate inflammation.

Area of Science:

  • Urology
  • Pathology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsies are a standard diagnostic procedure.
  • Accurate histological analysis is crucial for diagnosing prostate conditions.

Observation:

  • Lycopodium clavatum (LC) spores were unexpectedly identified in two prostate core biopsy samples.
  • The spores were traced to the lubricating coating of standard ultrasound probe covers.

Findings:

  • The presence of LC spores can mimic or obscure pathological findings in prostate biopsies.
  • Misidentification of spores may lead to unnecessary investigations or misdiagnosis, potentially causing prostate inflammation or granulomas.

Implications:

  • The use of LC spore-free condoms is recommended for transrectal ultrasound-guided prostate biopsies.
  • Implementing spore-free materials can enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient safety in urological procedures.

More Related Videos

A Cognitive Fusion-guided Prostate Biopsy Using Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Transrectal Ultrasound06:08

A Cognitive Fusion-guided Prostate Biopsy Using Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Transrectal Ultrasound

Published on: March 21, 2025

Transperineal Prostate Biopsy Using a Cone-shaped Double-hole Method with Dual-plane Probe Guidance05:35

Transperineal Prostate Biopsy Using a Cone-shaped Double-hole Method with Dual-plane Probe Guidance

Published on: June 6, 2025

Related Concept Videos

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy01:26

Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy

Sigmoidoscopy and laparoscopy are distinct medical procedures that enable physicians to internally inspect different parts of the GI tract. Although they serve different purposes, each is essential for diagnosing and, in some cases, treating various medical conditions.
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Urologic Endoscopic Procedure: Cystoscopic Examination01:28

Urologic Endoscopic Procedure: Cystoscopic Examination

Meaning of Cystoscopic Examination:Cystoscopy is an essential diagnostic tool in urology that is used to assess the structure and function of the genitourinary system. It provides a direct view of the urethra, bladder, and, in some cases, the ureteral openings. This procedure helps detect structural abnormalities, infections, cancers, and blockages in the urinary tract. There are two types of cystoscopy:Flexible cystoscopy is commonly performed in outpatient settings due to its less invasive...