Shear-wave elastography of the testis in the healthy man – determination of standard values

Abstract

Real-time shear-wave elastography proved to be feasible in the assessment of testicular stiffness. It is important to consider the measurement region as standard values differ between the centre and the testicular periphery. Further studies with more subjects may be required to define the normal range of values for each age group. Useful clinical applications could include the diagnostic work-up of patients with scrotal masses or male infertility.

Reliability of testicular stiffness quantification using shear wave elastography in predicting male fertility: a preliminary prospective study

“…Di'Anastasi et al found a positive correlation between advanced age and testicular SWVVs and their result was attributed to the increase in testicular stiffness with aging. The age-dependence of testicular stiffness and the decrease of stiffness in the upper pole of the testis compared to the center and lower poles were also reported [21,22]. In our study, a similar negative correlation between the mean testicular volume and advanced age, and a mild positive correlation between the mean testicular SWVV and advanced age were revealed.…”

Application value of real-time shear wave elastography in differential diagnosis of testicular torsion

“…The visceral layer and white membrane are tough, and the testicular parenchyma is soft, being mainly composed of seminiferous tubule [7]. Therefore, the shear wave velocity values in the middle of the testicle is different comparing with the testicular border [28]. On the color map of SWE, in the control group, we found the normal testicular capsule to be blue-green and the middle testicular parenchyma as a uniform blue color.…”

The EFSUMB Guidelines and Recommendations for the Clinical Practice of Elastography in Non-Hepatic Applications: Update 2018

“…The prob-lems associated with the areas of fibrosis adjacent to the tunica albuginea hamper the assessment of focal lesions adjacent to this region [392]. Measurements using SWE between the center and peripheral zones differ and the point of measurement requires standardization [393,394].…”