Segmental testicular infarction: sonographic findings and pathologic correlation

J Ultrasound Med. 2013 Feb;32(2):365-72. doi: 10.7863/jum.2013.32.2.365.

Abstract

Segmental testicular infarction can mimic testicular carcinoma on sonography and can lead to unnecessary orchiectomy. This case series describes and correlates sonographic and histologic findings of 7 pathologically proven segmental testicular infarction cases. Segmental testicular infarction should be suspected on sonography when a geographic lesion with low or mixed echogenicity has absent or near-absent flow in a patient with scrotal pain. A hyperechoic rim and peripheral hyperemia correspond to interstitial hemorrhage and inflammatory changes. As an infarct evolves, it becomes more discrete and hypoechoic as ghost outlines replace seminiferous tubules. Follow-up or contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging or sonography can increase diagnostic confidence in suspected cases and prevent unnecessary orchiectomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Infarction / diagnostic imaging*
  • Infarction / pathology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Orchiectomy
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Testicular Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Testicular Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Testis / blood supply*
  • Testis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Testis / pathology
  • Ultrasonography
  • Unnecessary Procedures
  • Young Adult