Diagnostic and prognostic implications of testicular microlithiasis.

Abstract

Testicular microlithiasis (TML) is an uncommon condition that is discovered in the testicular parenchyma by coincidence during scrotal ultrasound examinations with a rate of 0.6-9%. Numerous medical conditions, including cryptorchidism, testicular torsion, Klinefelter syndrome, hypogonadism, varicocele, hypospadias, and infertility, have been linked to TML. Although the precise nature of the relationship between TML and infertility is still unknown, medical research has shown a correlation between abnormalities in specific sperm parameters and TML. Furthermore, studies on TML patients suggested that the results regarding reproductive hormone parameters might not be entirely consistent. If an infertile man with TML falls into one of the high-risk categories, such as having bilateral TM, atrophic testes (<12 mL), a history of undescended testis, or testicular germ cell tumors, he may be offered a testicular biopsy. The chance of getting cancer rises when TML is bilateral and there are other risk factors. Instead of doing a testicular biopsy on these individuals, a customized strategy based on the patient's age, concurrent symptoms of testicular dysgenesis syndrome, couple fertility, desire for paternity, and ultrasound pattern is indicated for follow-up.