Spontaneous regression of cystic dysplasia of the rete testis in an 18-month-old boy: the key role of ultrasonography

Abstract

Cystic dysplasia of the rete testis (CDT) is a rare cause of scrotal swelling in children. It is a congenital disorder and it can be associated with other genitourinary abnormalities. At present, there is no clear consensus on treatment. Surgical approach has traditionally been the treatment of choice, while, more recently, conservative approach has been applied, justified by the benign nature of the lesion and after few cases of spontaneous regression have been documented. Ultrasonography, supported by negative tumor markers, plays a key role in the diagnostic work up and during observational follow-up. We report a further case of spontaneous regression of suspected CDT in an 18-month-old boy, who has been followed with clinic and ultrasonographic checks.

Keywords: Cystic dysplasia; Non-operative management; Regression; Rete testis; Ultrasound.

Fig. 1

a US scan at diagnosis, showing a well-circumscribed multicystic area inside the left testicle (between calipers), measuring 15 × 10 × 8 mm and compressing the normal testicular parenchyma peripherally (T); b the lesion presented a slight vascularity at color-Doppler examination, homogeneous with parenchymal vascularity

Fig. 2

US scan performed at 3-month follow-up, showing a multicystic intratesticular lesion (between calipers), measuring 9 × 7 × 6 mm, which was reduced in size and number of cysts, compared to first US scan

Fig. 3

US scan at 6-month follow-up demonstrated the complete disappearance of the multicystic mass and a normal testicular parenchyma