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What is Testicular Microlithiasis?

Christine Gray
Christine Gray

Testicular microlithiasis is a rare condition characterized by clusters of microscopic calcium deposits in the testicles. Scrotal ultrasound images can reveal the condition, which is diagnosed in approximately 0.5 to 0.6% of men who undergo such examinations. The causes of this condition are unknown but might include injury or infection, and the condition is associated with Klinefelter's syndrome, cryptorchidism, infertility, Down Syndrome and alveolar microlithiasis. It is most often diagnosed in men who have complained of scrotal swelling or pain or who are being tested for infertility. There is no known treatment.

The calcifications found in this condition are usually spread symmetrically throughout both testes, but in 20% of cases, clustering is asymmetrical. Cases occurring in only one testis also have been reported. A case involving five or more calcium clusters is termed classical testicular microlithiasis, and a case with fewer than five clusters is referred to as limited testicular microlithiasis.

Testicular microlithiasis may develop as a result of a testicular injury.
Testicular microlithiasis may develop as a result of a testicular injury.

This condition is associated with testicular cancer, with research using testicular ultrasounds indicating that men who have this type of microlithiasis are three or four times as likely to develop cancer. Some research, such as that examining scrotal sonogram results, has suggested that the likelihood of cancer is much higher — possibly more than 20 times as likely. As a result, medical professionals should screen patients who have the condition for testicular tumors and annual sonogram screenings and frequent patient self-examination are also recommended.

Testicular microthiasis is sometimes associated with Down syndrome.
Testicular microthiasis is sometimes associated with Down syndrome.

First identified in 1970, testicular microlithiasis has been seen in males as young as 10 months old. There is some indication that men who develop this condition earlier have a higher risk of developing testicular cancer than those who develop the condition later in life. The mean age of men who have both testicular tumors and microlithiasis is approximately 30 years old.

Discussion Comments

StoneMaker

I was diagnosed with 2 epididymal cysts in 2009. Additionally, my surgeon describes my left kidney as a "gravel pit". (my body has ejected over kidney 400 stones and I have had surgery for one that was 13mm). However, I could feel these "other" stones moving. However, I was told that it was very unlikely that I could feel stones moving from my testicles. I can now predict fairly accurately when I will 'see' stones. The ones that are smaller than 1mm don't seem to cause too much sensation. I can generally sense anything over about 1mm. Those that are around 2mm (yes I do measure them)a nd larger definitely get my attention.

Thanks for the info. You have given me an insight as to what is really going on inside. It appears that I am in the 0.5 percent to 0.6 percent group.

If you want a great case study for kidney and MT stones, let me know. I think I have the world's biggest collection.

One question though. Is it possible that MT stones moving could cause bleeding that will show up in ejaculate? Thanks again.

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    • Testicular microlithiasis may develop as a result of a testicular injury.
      By: Mat Hayward
      Testicular microlithiasis may develop as a result of a testicular injury.
    • Testicular microthiasis is sometimes associated with Down syndrome.
      By: karelnoppe
      Testicular microthiasis is sometimes associated with Down syndrome.
    • Testicular microlithiasis is a rare condition in which microscopic calcium deposits cluster in the testicles.
      By: peterjunaidy
      Testicular microlithiasis is a rare condition in which microscopic calcium deposits cluster in the testicles.
    • Scrotal ultrasound images can help diagnose testicular microlithiasis.
      By: poco_bw
      Scrotal ultrasound images can help diagnose testicular microlithiasis.