Magnetic resonance imaging is a highly accurate and informative method in modern diagnostics. The procedure involves sequential scanning of the organ using magnetic waves. As a result of diagnostics, layered images are obtained, in which even small structures are clearly visible. The main advantage of the method is safety and the absence of harmful radiation exposure to the patient.
MRI of the scrotum: what the study shows
Thanks to the high resolution of the tomograph, it is possible to obtain a large number of clear images in different projections. This allows you to determine the shape, size and structure of the organs of the scrotum, as well as to detect neoplasms and changes (including at the first stages of development).
With the help of MRI diagnostics, the following pathologies can be detected:
- Inflammation of the gonadal appendages.
- Abscess of the scrotum or testis.
- Tesicle dropsy.
- Hemorrhage in the scrotum.
- Anomalies in the development of the scrotum (cryptorchism or polyorchism).
- Cysts and lipomas.
- Testicular torsion.
- Fibrous lesions.
- Thrombosis of the vessels of the spermatic cord.
- Hemorrhage or swelling of the testicular parenchyma.
- Benign testicular tumors (MRI with contrast).
- Hematomas of the testicles.
- Testicular cancer (MRI with contrast).
- Open and closed injuries of the scrotum.
- Injuries to the gonads.
MRI is also used for suspected tumors. Diagnostics makes it possible to determine the structure of the neoplasm and its penetration into nearby tissues, to make a preliminary conclusion about its nature (malignant or benign).
MRI of male genital organs with contrast
This type of diagnosis in most cases is prescribed if necessary to confirm or refute the suspicion of a testicular tumor.
The patient is given an intravenous injection of a drug based on gadolinium. Once in the blood, the substance quickly comes into contact with the changed cells. Thanks to this, neoplasms become clearly visible in the pictures against the background of healthy tissues.
Medicines with a contrast agent are well tolerated by patients. They do not affect potency, quality of life, etc. Gadolinium is completely eliminated from the body within 24 hours.
Indications for examination
An MRI of the penis and scrotum may be prescribed by an andrologist or urologist in the following cases:
- The appearance of symptoms that indicate possible pathologies - a change in skin color in the area under study, sensitivity of organs, pain.
- Congenital diseases of the scrotum: testicular atrophy or dystopia, cryptorchidism.
- Epididymitis
- Difficulty urinating.
- Spermatocele
- Sexual dysfunction.
- Suspicion of neoplasms of the scrotum.
- Increased inguinal lymph nodes.
- Testicular infarction.
- Injury to the groin or directly to the scrotum.
- Inflammatory processes in the testicles and appendages.
- Hernias in the scrotum or groin.
MRI is also prescribed in cases where other diagnostic methods have been ineffective.
