Contrast-enhanced ultrasound for diagnosing testicular infarction: Findings from a retrospective cohort analysis

This study aims to evaluate the ultrasonographic features associated with testicular infarction, determine the diagnostic effectiveness of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in assessing the testicular vascular system, and investigate the etiological factors contributing to testicular infarction. A retrospective analysis was performed involving 12 patients with confirmed testicular infarction. Each participant underwent standard superficial ultrasound examinations, followed by CEUS. The acquired imaging data were subsequently analyzed, taking into consideration the clinical conditions preceding the imaging assessments. A total of 13 lesions were detected across the 12 patients, with 1 individual exhibiting bilateral infarcts in the left testis. Based on the CEUS imaging findings, a classification system was developed to categorize the lesions into 4 distinct types: mediastinal branch infarction, small vessel infarction, capillary infarction, and mixed testicular infarction. This classification system offers a structured approach for understanding and potentially mitigating the causes of testicular infarction. CEUS markedly improves the diagnostic accuracy for testicular infarction and serves as a crucial tool in both the diagnosis and etiological assessment of this condition.