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All you need to know about Testicular Biopsy

Team AckoFeb 8, 2024

Testicles produce sperm, which is necessary for conception, and also produces essential male hormones. Any problems in the production of sperm can impact male fertility. A testicular biopsy can help to resolve any problems with the testicles.

Contents

Procedure for a Testicular Biopsy
How should you prepare for the test?
Why is Testicular Biopsy done?
What is the meaning of any irregular result?

What is a Testicular Biopsy?

The testicles are the male reproductive organs. They are located in the scrotum, which is the fleshy pouch of tissue that hangs under the penis.

A testicular biopsy takes a tissue sample from the testicle for laboratory analysis.

A testicular biopsy can be used for the following causes:

1. Diagnose causes of male infertility

2. Diagnose the location and condition of any lump in the testes

3. Obtain sperm for in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Procedure for a Testicular Biopsy

There are two different procedures for a testicular biopsy.

1. Percutaneous Biopsy

In this procedure, a thin biopsy needle is inserted through the skin. The needle has a syringe on the end to collect the testicular tissue. This procedure does not require an incision or stitches. It is also known as a fine needle biopsy.

2. Open Biopsy

An open biopsy is also called a surgical biopsy. The doctor makes a cut in the skin. A cut also is made in the testicle. Then a small tissue sample is taken from the opening and stitches are used to close the cuts.

How should you prepare for the test?

You should not take aspirin or medications that contain aspirin for a week before the procedure. If you are on any other medication, consult your doctor about them.

Immediate after-effects of Testicular Biopsy

Following the procedure, the scrotum and testicles may be sore for a few days and some bruising may be seen. There can be a slight risk of bleeding or infection. The scrotum may swell or become discoloured. This should clear up within a few days of the procedure. Sexual activity should be avoided for approximately 2 weeks after the biopsy.

Why is Testicular Biopsy done?

Testicular biopsy is done to determine the cause of male infertility when a semen analysis shows that there is abnormal sperm and other tests have not detected the cause. In some cases, sperm obtained from a testicular biopsy can be used to fertilize a woman's egg in the lab, which is in vitro fertilization.

Testicular biopsy may also be done if you have found a lump during testicular self-examination. If tests such as testicular ultrasound suggest that the lump may be in the testicle, your doctor may recommend exploring the testicle through a surgical cut made in the groin.

A biopsy to determine whether the lump is cancerous or noncancerous may be performed. If it is cancerous or cancer is suspected, the entire testicle will need to be removed.

What is the meaning of any irregular result?

Abnormal results may indicate a problem with sperm or hormone function. A biopsy may be required to detect the cause of the problem.

If the sperm development appears normal in the testicle, but semen analysis shows no sperm or reduced sperm, there may be a blockage in the tube through which the sperm travels from the testes to the urethra. This blockage may require surgery.

Other causes of abnormal results may include the following:

-Orchitis

-A cyst-like lump filled with fluid and dead sperm cells (spermatocele)

-Testicular cancer

If you receive an irregular result, discuss it with your doctor, so that you can be aware of your treatment options and go for the best choice.

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

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