Testicular Microlithiasis: Is it a pre-cancertour state?

Backgroud: Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is an uncommon condition characterized by calcium deposits in the lumina of semineferous tubules. These intratesticular calcifications appear as bright 2-3-mm echogenic foci on testicular ultrasound. Cumulated experience points to an association between TM, intratubular germ cell neoplasia and other testicular tumors. To assess the prevalence of TM revealed on sonography in referred population and its association with the concurrent testicular tumors. Patients and Over a 129-month period (August 1991–May 2002), 2165 high resolution (7.5 MHz) scrotal sonographies were performed in the Imaging Department of Mehr Hospital, a referral center in Tehran. Cases of testicular tumor and TM were selected. The diagnosis and histologic typing of tumors were made by histopathologic studies. A total of 15 cases of TM were discovered, giving a prevalence of 0.7%. Concurrent TM and testicular neoplasia were detected in four patients (27% cases of TM). It is strongly suggested to follow those with TM with physical examination and ultrasonography at least annually and to encourage self-examination.