Calcifications in the testicle
July 28, 2011 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Uni-Arzt Freddy Feuerstein
I am male, 36 years old. During an ultrasound examination of my testicle as part of a preventive check-up, 3 small white calcifications were visible. The urologist afterwards said that everything was clinically inconspicuous, and I should just come back in 2 months. Now I am very afraid that I might have more of these calcifications in my testicle at the next ultrasound.
- Are these calcifications precursors to testicular cancer?
- Is it possible that it is an undiscovered tumor causing the calcifications?
- Can the calcifications disappear on their own?
- What does it mean if they should increase?
- How reliable is ultrasound in ruling out testicular cancer?
Thank you very much.
Dear inquirer,
Calcifications in the testicle are a relatively common incidental finding during a testicular examination. There is literature that mentions up to 2%. Calcifications, as your urologist has already mentioned, are completely harmless.
You should simply check your testicles thoroughly as a precaution once a month, but there is actually NO causal connection between testicular cancer and calcifications.
As mentioned, it is a totally harmless incidental finding, unless there are symptoms such as pain, swelling, hardening, etc.
The deposits can theoretically disappear, but it is rather unlikely. The surrounding tissue will likely reorganize instead. This can also be seen further in the ultrasound.
An ultrasound examination depends on the examiner, but a urologist should be very proficient in "his" area, so you can usually trust that he will make a correct diagnosis. Together with a blood test that determines tumor markers, a conclusion is very possible. I do not think that this type of examination is necessary for you. But if you have any doubts, consult your urologist. If it still doesn't give you peace of mind, you can also pay for the tumor marker test yourself. However, based on the history you have described, I cannot give a clear recommendation.
All the best,
Torben C. Müller
