How worrisome is testicular microlithiasis?

Abstract

Purpose of review: Anecdotal reports of men developing testicular cancer after previous identification of microcalcifications on ultrasound generated significant concern in the literature about the relationship of testicular microlithiasis and testis cancer. Until 2001 little prospective data were available on the prevalence or natural history of testicular microlithiasis in the healthy male population.

Recent findings: Testicular microlithiasis is present in 5.6% of the male population between 17 and 35 years of age (14.1% in African Americans), far more common than testicular cancer (7:100,000). The majority of men with testicular microlithiasis will not develop testicular cancer. Previously recommended surveillance regimens using ultrasound, tumor markers or testicular biopsy are too costly and do not offer an improved outcome over testicular self-examination.

Summary: Testicular microlithiasis is common and while microcalcifications do exist in roughly 50% of germ cell tumors the majority of men with testicular microlithiasis will not develop testicular cancer. Increased emphasis on testicular examination is the recommended follow up for men identified with testicular microlithiasis.