Testicular microlithiasis: a review and its association with testicular cancer

Urol Oncol. 2004 Jul-Aug;22(4):285-9. doi: 10.1016/S1078-1439(03)00177-7.

Abstract

Testicular microlithiasis (TM) is an entity of unknown etiology that results in the formation of intratubular calcifications. It is of concern to the urologist because of its possible association with intratubular germ cell neoplasia and testicular germ cell cancer. Although commonly present in patients with germ cell tumors, there appears to be no definitive association with TM and cancer. Therefore, follow-up at this time should be dictated based on risk factors for developing testis cancer more than on the presence of TM.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Lithiasis / complications*
  • Lithiasis / pathology*
  • Male
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / etiology*
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal / pathology
  • Testicular Diseases / complications*
  • Testicular Diseases / pathology*
  • Testicular Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Testicular Neoplasms / pathology