| Disease | Injury | Nutrition | Poison |
| Special Topic | Surgery | Symptoms | Test |
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Testicular biopsy |
| Definition: |
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A procedure to obtain a sample of tissue from the testicles for examination. The testicles are the male reproductive organs, and produce sperm and the hormone testosterone. They are located in the scrotum (the flesh-covered sac that hangs between the legs at the base of the penis). |
| Alternative Names: |
| Biopsy - testicle |
| How the test is performed: |
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The biopsy can be performed in many ways. The method used is determined by the reason for the biopsy and the patient and doctor's desires. Open Biopsy: The test may be done in the health care provider's office, surgical center or at a hospital. The skin over the testicle is cleaned with an antiseptic (germ killing) solution. The area around it will be covered with a sterile towel. A local anesthetic will be given to numb the area. A small incision is made through the skin, and a small piece of the testicle tissue is removed by snipping the sample off with small scissors. A stitch is used to close the opening in the testicle and another to close the skin incision. The procedure may be repeated for the other testicle. Needle biopsy: This test is usually done in the doctor's office. The area is cleaned and local anesthesia is used just as in the open biopsy. A sample of the testicle is obtained using a special needle that does not require an incision in the skin. The patient should only feel pressure in the area or a small pin prick like discomfort. Depending on the reason for the biopsy, a needle biopsy may not be possible or recommended by the physician. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
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Adults: There is no special preparation. Children: The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
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| How the test will feel: |
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There will be a sting when the anesthetic is given. |
| Why the test is performed: |
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The test is usually performed when a semen analysis suggests that there is abnormal sperm, and other tests have not determined the cause. It may also be performed when testicular self-examination has revealed a lump. When tests such as testicular ultrasound suggest that the lump may be benign, a testicular biopsy may be indicated to ascertain whether the lump is cancerous or benign. If an ultrasound suggests the lump is cancerous, the entire testicle is usually removed. |
| Normal Values: |
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The sperm development appears normal. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
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When the sperm development appears normal and the semen analysis shows no sperm or reduced sperm, then a blockage of the tube that the sperm travel from the testes to the urethra is suspected as the cause for infertility. If this is the case, the blockage can sometimes be repaired with surgery. |
| What the risks are: |
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There is a slight risk of bleeding or infection. |
| Special considerations: |
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You may be asked to wear an athletic supporter for several days after the biopsy. You will probably be asked to refrain from sexual activity for 1 or 2 weeks. The area should not get wet for several days afterward. |
Reviewed By: Debra Fromer, M.D. Department of Urology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
