Learning objectives
The aim of this poster is to review the main non-tumoral scrotal pathologies throughout childhood and adolescence and to emphasize the importance of their recognition in the different imaging methods,
with emphasis on ultrasound and Doppler imaging.
In addition,
the normal anatomy of male genital components will be briefly reviewed.
Background
Pediatric scrotal pathology can present with non-specific symptomatology,
which can fit a broad spectrum of disease,
ranging from common benign pathology such as hydrocele to acute testicular torsion,
which requires urgent surgical intervention.
Ultrasonography is a non-invasive,
easily accessible method that provides excellent anatomical details and whose ability to diagnose scrotal pathology is unsurpassed by any other imaging modality,
especially when complemented with Doppler imaging,
which allows assessment of tissue vascularity and viability.
Normal anatomy of male genital components
The testicles are contained in the...
Findings and procedure details
We will proceed with a pictorial review of benign pediatric scrotal pathology,
with cases from our institution and accompanied by descriptive information.
Benign causes of acute scrotum
Acute scrotum is characterized by sudden testicular pain,
redness and swelling and is a common medical emergency.
Usually,
testicular involvement is unilateral,
so the comparative evaluation with the opposite testicle is essential.
A good anamnesis,
the physical exam and the ultrasound all contribute to an accurate diagnosis.
1) Testicular torsion
More than 20% of the cases of acute...
Conclusion
Ultrasound plays an essential role in the assessment of children with scrotal pathology,
and therefore,
radiologists should be familiar not only with the pubertal development and variants of normality but also with the alterations to be investigated in each case.
References
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D’Andrea A,
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US in the assessment of acute scrotum.
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Aso C,
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Sonography...