Testicular microlithiasis: imaging appearances and pathologic correlation

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the spectrum of sonographic findings, clinical implications, and pathologic correlation in patients with testicular microlithiasis (TM).

Materials and methods: The cases of 42 patients with the characteristic appearance of TM on sonograms were retrospectively evaluated for the number, pattern, and distribution of echogenic foci and for associated intratesticular abnormalities. Medical records and pathologic reports were reviewed.

Results: Considerable variation was found in the number and distribution of occurrences of TM (five to 60 echogenic foci per transducer field). In some patients, peripheral clustering was seen. Most patients demonstrated side-to-side symmetry, but asymmetric distribution was seen in eight patients and unilateral foci were seen in one patient. In 17 patients, a germ cell neoplasm was seen. One additional patient had a focal lesion that was proved to be an infarct.

Conclusion: TM has a characteristic sonographic appearance. Because of the 40% occurrence of primary testicular neoplasm in association with it, TM cannot continue to be considered a benign finding.