Radiology, Vol 152, 65-68, Copyright © 1984 by Radiological Society of North America
Asymptomatic scrotal masses in children
RA Barth, RL Teele, A Colodny, A Retik and S Bauer
The ultrasound scans of 16 boys with asymptomatic scrotal masses were
retrospectively studied. Ultrasound localized seven of the masses as
primary testicular lesions and nine as extratesticular lesions, six of
which were hydroceles. Ultrasonography also characterized the scrotal
masses as predominantly cystic or solid. Ultrasound could not differentiate
benign from malignant disease when a solid mass was found. When a hydrocele
was identified, ultrasound was able to image the underlying testis and
accurately evaluate it for primary disease. These ultrasound observations
can help the surgeon decide when to explore the scrotum and whether to
approach the testes via an inguinal or scrotal incision. Conversely,
ultrasonographic confirmation of a normal testis may prevent needless
surgery and the removal of a normal testis.
