Testicular Ultrasound imaging is the primary imaging method to evaluate issues with the testicle and the scrotum.
This study is typically used to:
· determine whether a mass in the scrotum felt by the patient or doctor is cystic or solid and its location.
· diagnose results of trauma to the scrotal area.
· diagnose causes of testicular pain or swelling such as inflammation or torsion.
· evaluate the cause of infertility such as varicocele.
· look for the location of undescended testis.
A sudden onset of pain in the scrotum should be taken very seriously. A common cause of scrotal pain is epididymitis, an inflammation of the epididymis.
Ultrasound can often detect an absent or undescended testicle as well. It is estimated that approximately three percent of full-term baby boys have an undescended testicle.
Ultrasound can also identify testicular torsion, the twisting of the spermatic cord that contains the vessels that supply blood to the testicle. Testicular torsion is caused by abnormally loose attachments of tissues that are formed during fetal development.
Ultrasound also can be used to locate and evaluate masses (lumps or tumors) in the testicle or elsewhere in the scrotum.
Collections of fluid and abnormalities of the blood vessels may appear as masses and can be assessed by ultrasound. Masses both outside and within the testicles may be benign or malignant and should be evaluated as soon as they are detected.