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Testicular Calcification Ultrasound



 Submitted by Nic on May 10, 2011
There are many men who are asked to undergo testicular calcification ultrasound or a scrotal calcification ultrasound, when they undergo fertility tests. This could cause a lot of confusion and concern in people, as there are several men, who may not even know what testicular or scrotal calcification is.

What is testicular calcification?

Also known as testicular microlithiasis, testicular calcification can be described as the build up of small particles of calcium into the testicles. The exact factors that lead to this occurrence are not known and since not all cases of this problem are detected, it is not possible to identify how often this problem occurs in men. However, it is believed that anywhere between 2% and 6% of the men across the world are affected by this problem. It is very not common for a doctor to suggest a testicular calcification ultrasound to any patient. It is only when doctors are investigating potential causes for infertility problems that they suggest a testicular scan. However, at times doctors may also need to ask the patient to go through the testicular calcification ultrasound in case they are trying to identify the exact causes for unfavorable testicular symptoms, which may include pain and swelling in the testicle.

Testicular calcification imaging procedure

A testicular calcification sonography or ultrasound is the most common screening procedure carried out, to see if the testicles contain a build up of calcium. While going through the testicular calcification ultrasound, the man needs to lie down, flat on his back, on the examination table, with his legs spread. The medical health care provider either drapes a piece of cloth, or applies a few strips of adhesive tape across both the thighs, just below the scrotum. This helps raise the scrotal sac a bit, so that the testicles lie side by side. In order to transmit the sound waves, some clear gel needs to be applied on the scrotal sac. After that the ultrasound transducer or the handheld probe is moved over the scrotum. This sends out high frequency sound waves, creating an image of the areas of the scrotum that the probe is passed over. There is no preparation that is required for the testicular calcification ultrasound, nor is any anesthesia used, since a person does not feel any discomfort; however, the gel may just feel a bit cold.

In case the testicular calcification ultrasound test reveals that there is a problem in the testicles, then doctors may recommend further tests or an appropriate treatment option.
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