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Examination of the scrotal testicle is straightforward as the transducer may be placed directly over the organ. If the transducer is placed in a pre-scrotal position, then both the testes maybe imaged side by side. If it is necessary to search for a non-scrotal testicle, then begin by searching the inguinal area systematically, proceeding to examine the abdomen from the region of the inguinal ring. To the bladder, to the ipsilateral kidney.
Normal appearance: The normal testicle is smooth, well defined and oval. The parenchyma is evenly granular and of moderate echogenicity, with an echogenic spot or line in the center. The adjacent epididymis is somewhat coarser in texture and irregular in outline.
Abnormal findings: Focal masses within the testicle may be hypoechoic, hyperechoic, or of mixed echogenicity, and usually represents neoplasms. However abscesses, granulomas, cysts and hematomas may also occur. Enlargement of epididymis rather than testicle is seen in epididymitis. A collection of small fluid filled cysts adjacent to the testicle may represent distention of the spermatic cord or a variocoele.
PHYSICS OF ULTRASOUND| MERITS| LIMITATIONS| EYE| HEART| LIVER| SPLEEN| KIDNEY| BLADDER AND PROSTRATE| PANCREAS| GI TRACT| TESTIS| REPRODUCTION AND OBSTETRICS