Testicular microlithiasis and associated testicular malignancies in childhood: a systematic review

Abstract

The aim was to perform a systematic review to evaluate the published data on testicular microlithiasis (TM) in the pediatric population and to explore the association of TM with testicular malignancy as well as to propose guidelines to aid decision making on pediatric patients with TM. Outcome data for pediatric TM should be interpretated with caution due to the poor quality evidence available. Whilst the link with testicular neoplasms is undisputed (<5%) active screening programmes require robust evidence to support their wider deployment. Testicular self-examination though would appear advisable for all patients with testicular microlithiasis.

Keywords: germ cell tumor; testicular malignancy; testicular microlithiasis.