Focal testicular lesions: colour Doppler ultrasound, contrast-enhanced ultrasound and tissue elastography as adjuvants to the diagnosis

Abstract

The aim of this review is to illustrate the potential of different and newer ultrasound techniques beyond conventional B-mode imaging, including colour Doppler ultrasound, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and tissue elastography, in the characterisation of both benign and malignant intratesticular lesions. Normally, testicular malignancies, either primary or secondary, demonstrate an increase in colour Doppler signal. However, there is a diversity of benign testicular lesions that may mimic testicular malignancies. The use of CEUS improves characterisation of testicular lesions, and confirms lack of vascularity in benign abnormalities such as epidermoid cysts, infarctions, abscesses and changes following trauma. Tissue elastography allows further evaluation of the cellular consistency of the abnormality. Familiarity with the appearances seen with these ultrasound techniques in both benign and malignant abnormalities should aid in improving confidence in arriving at the correct diagnosis.