Scrotal ultrasound
Testicular ultrasound; Testicular sonogramScrotal ultrasound is an imaging test that looks at the scrotum. The scrotum is the flesh-covered sac that hangs between the legs at the base of the penis and contains the testicles.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to make images of organs and structures inside the body.
The testicles are the male reproductive organs that produce sperm and the hormone testosterone. They are located in the scrotum, along with other small organs, blood vessels, and a small tube called the vas deferens.
Testosterone
A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood. Both men and women produce this hormone. The test described...
Scrotum
The scrotum is a part of a male's body that is located below the penis. The scrotum is the sac (pouch) that contains the testes, epididymis, and the...
How the Test is Performed
You will lie on your back with your legs spread. The health care provider drapes a cloth across your thighs under the scrotum or applies wide strips of adhesive tape to the area. The scrotal sac will be slightly raised with the testicles lying side by side.
A clear gel is applied to the scrotal sac to help transmit the sound waves. A handheld probe (the ultrasound transducer) is then moved over the scrotum by the technologist. The ultrasound machine sends out high-frequency sound waves. These waves reflect off areas in the scrotum to create a picture.
How to Prepare for the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test.
How the Test will Feel
There is little discomfort. The conducting gel may feel slightly cold and wet.
Why the Test is Performed
A testicle ultrasound is done to:
- Help determine why one or both testicles have become larger or smaller
- Look at a mass or lump in one or both of the testicles
- Find the reason for pain in the testicles
- Show how blood flows through the testicles
Normal Results
The testicles and other areas in the scrotum appear normal.
What Abnormal Results Mean
Possible causes of abnormal results include:
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Collection of very small veins, called a varicocele
Varicocele
A varicocele is the swelling of the veins inside the scrotum. These veins are found along the cord that holds up a man's testicles (spermatic cord)....
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Infection or abscess
Abscess
An abscess is a collection of pus in any part of the body. In most cases, the area around an abscess is swollen and inflamed.
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Noncancerous (benign) cyst
Cyst
A cyst is a closed pocket or pouch of tissue. It can be filled with air, fluid, pus, or other material.
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Twisting of the testicle that blocks blood flow, called testicular torsion
Testicular torsion
Testicular torsion is twisting of the spermatic cord, which supports the testes in the scrotum. When this occurs, blood supply is cut off to the tes...
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Testicular tumor
Tumor
A tumor is an abnormal growth of body tissue. Tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign).
Read Article Now Book Mark Article - Testicular atrophy (shrinkage)
Risks
There are no known risks. You will not be exposed to radiation with this test.
Considerations
In certain cases, Doppler ultrasound may help identify blood flow inside the scrotum. This method can be helpful in cases of testicular torsion because blood flow to the twisted testicle may be reduced.
References
Gilbert BR, Fulgham PF. Urinary tract imaging: basic principles of urologic ultrasonography. In: Partin AW, Dmochowski RR, Kavoussi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 4.
Owen CA. Scrotum. In: Hagen-Ansert SL, ed. Textbook of Diagnostic Sonography. 9th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2023:chap 23.
Sommers D, Winter T. The scrotum. In: Rumack CM, Levine D, eds. Diagnostic Ultrasound. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 20.
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Male reproductive anatomy - illustration
The male reproductive structures include the penis, the scrotum, the testicles (testes), the epididymis, the seminal vesicles, and the prostate.
Male reproductive anatomy
illustration
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Testicular ultrasound - illustration
Testicular ultrasound is an imaging procedure to examine the testicles and other scrotal structures. A ultrasound is performed by moving the ultrasound transducer over the scrotum. Ultrasound pictures are viewed on a monitor at the same time. Testicular ultrasound is performed to help determine the cause of testicular enlargement or the reason for testicular pain.
Testicular ultrasound
illustration
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Male reproductive anatomy - illustration
The male reproductive structures include the penis, the scrotum, the testicles (testes), the epididymis, the seminal vesicles, and the prostate.
Male reproductive anatomy
illustration
-
Testicular ultrasound - illustration
Testicular ultrasound is an imaging procedure to examine the testicles and other scrotal structures. A ultrasound is performed by moving the ultrasound transducer over the scrotum. Ultrasound pictures are viewed on a monitor at the same time. Testicular ultrasound is performed to help determine the cause of testicular enlargement or the reason for testicular pain.
Testicular ultrasound
illustration
Review Date: 4/6/2024
Reviewed By: Jason Levy, MD, FSIR, Northside Radiology Associates, Atlanta, GA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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