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OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the application value of shear wave elastography in examining normal testes and inflammatory epididymal tail masses. METHODS We examined 110 healthy male volunteers (with a total of 220 testes) and 25 patients with epididymitis via conventional scrotal ultrasonography and shear wave elastography. The mean (Emean), minimal (Emin), maximal (Emax), and standard deviation (ESD) values of elasticity were acquired. The inflammatory masses were assessed at initial diagnosis, at weeks 1 and 2 of standard anti-inflammatory treatment, upon remission, and at 2 weeks after remission. RESULTS The Emean values of different regions in testes varied in the following order: center region (3.14 ± 0.35 kPa) < upper- or lower-pole capsule (upper, 3.94 ± 0.90 kPa; lower, 3.94 ± 0.97 kPa) < posterior capsule (5.96 ± 1.46 kPa) < anterior capsule (6.27 ± 1.58 kPa). The Emean value of the center of the testicular parenchyma in the short axis was significantly larger than that in the long axis (3.47 ± 0.32 vs 3.14 ± 0.35 kPa; P < 0.05). There were significant differences in the Emean value between inflammatory epididymal tail masses at initial diagnosis, at 1 and 2 weeks after treatment, upon remission, and at 2 weeks after remission (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Shear wave elastography can be used to reflect the relative hardness of normal testes and inflammatory epididymal tail masses.

This study aimed to assess if Ecotext, a new software for evaluation of testicular echotexture, is a good method for diagnosis of stallions with testicular dysfunction (TD). Relationships between Ecotext parameters and sperm motility and production, testicular volume, and testicular blood flow were also studied. Ecotext provides a total of six echotexture parameters: Ecotext 1 (black pixels), 2 (white pixels) and 3 (grey pixels), and another 3 parameters related to hypoechogenic areas: Ecotext tubular density (ETD), Ecotext tubular diameter (ETd), and Ecotext tubular area (ETA). Stallions (n = 33) were assessed using proven diagnostic techniques (spermiogram, B-mode and Pulse Doppler ultrasound), and subsequent analysis with Ecotext. Animals were classified as “control stallions” (n:21, acceptable semen quality), and “stallions with TD” (n:12, poor semen quality (TM < 60%, PM < 45% and total nº of sperm with PM < 2000 × 106 spz), that were subdivided into “induced TD group” (immunized, anti-GnRH vaccine) and “acquired TD group”. The acquired TD group showed differences in all Ecotext parameters in relation to controls (Ecotext 1:0.11 ± 0.17 vs 2.82 ± 2.52, Ecotext 2:1584.0 ± 575.8 vs 388 ± 368.2, Ecotext 3:134.2 ± 9.26; ETA: 2.14 ± 0.59 vs 5.40 ± 1.90; ETd: 65.66 ± 6.27 vs 86.93 ± 10.65 and ETD: 92.35 ± 11.24 vs 132.10 ± 16.35, p ≤ 0.001). Results suggest acquired TD stallions were suffering testicular degeneration with loss of architecture and function as all Ecotext parameters were altered in relation to controls. Induced TD horses only showed a reduction in ETD (116.2 ± 8.59 vs 132.10 ± 16.35, p ≤ 0.001), despite all sperm parameters being worse. These findings suggested immunized stallions probably only experience an acute loss of testicular functionality and parenchyma architecture is likely not affected since differences in Ecotext parameters with control stallions were not detected. ETD was the best parameter to identify animals with TD (AUC: 0.84, optimal cut-off value of 124.3 seminiferous tubules/cm2). Correlations were found between ETD and Doppler indices (PI: 0.60; RI: 0.47 p ≤ 0.001), total testicular volume (r: 0.48; p ≤ 0.05) and sperm motility (TM:0.51; and PM:0.54; p ≤ 0.001) and production (r:0.51; p ≤ 0.001). In summary, Ecotext could identify changes in testicular echotexture of stallions with TD. Results open the possibility for new research focused on establishing the relationship between Ecotext parameters and histomorphometry features in stallion testes.

Nosso objetivo foi avaliar a integridade testicular de ovinos através da ultrassonografia modo-B. Utilizamos 16 ovinos machos sem raça definida, idade de 06 a 36 meses pesando de 16 a 71kg, criados em sistema semi-intensivo. Antes da realização das avaliações por ultrassom os machos foram pesados e realizou-se uma avaliação geral por inspeção e palpação com objetivo de detectar por inspeção e palpação possíveis alterações no aparelho reprodutor. O exame por ultrassom foi realizado quinzenalmente, obtendo imagens de cada testículo, correspondentes às posições: sagital (longitudinal) e transversal (lateromedial), por um só operador, com o animal em posição quadrupedal, sem tricotomia, e contenção manual, usando um ultrasson (Honda® - HS1500V) acoplado a um transdutor linear de 7MHz com frequência 8.0 MHz em todas as avaliações. Foi possível facilmente identificar nas imagens ultrassonográficas o parênquima testicular, mediastino e as túnicas delimitando o parênquima. Observa-se na região central do parênquima testicular o mediastino, uma linha e um ponto, quando avaliados nos planos sagital e transversal respectivamente e apresentavam sempre característica hiperecóica em relação ao parênquima. Observou-se sempre nas imagens as túnicas testiculares, estrutura caracteristicamente hiperecóicas delimitando o parênquima testicular, visualizadas como uma linha hiperecogênica, brilhante, que circunda o parênquima testicular separando-o do escroto. Dente os animais submetidos ao exame por ultrassom, três deles um com idade de 16 meses em atividade reprodutiva e dois com 36 meses e em repouso sexual apresentaram imagens com pontos sugestivos de calcificações testiculares observadas até o fim do estudo. Porém varias pesquisas não as correlacionaram com patologias, e existem controvérsias em ralação a presença das mesmas quando considerada a idade e composição do achado. É possível avaliar a integridade testicular de ovinos através da ultrassonografia modo-B. O exame por ultrassom do sistema genital de ovinos pode ser uma técnica útil que pode ser utilizada com sucesso e conveniência para fins de diagnóstico do testículo de ovinos.

Testicular trauma is common, usually trivial and rarely requires hospital attendance, but if it does, then imaging becomes essential as scrotal assessment may be difficult due to pain and/or scrotal disruption. Ultrasound (US) assumes a crucial role as other cross-sectional modalities have a limited use in the acute presentation. Despite the acceptable accuracy of conventional US techniques, there are limitations which hinder a thorough evaluation, critically the assessment of tissue viability, crucial for clinical management and prognosis. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has been shown to offer improved flow visualisation and tissue perfusion compared with conventional Doppler techniques. CEUS can accurately and confidently demonstrate the viability of testicular parenchyma, delineate fracture lines and haematomas and guide treatment for testis-sparing surgery or orchidectomy. The purpose of this review is to present the literature, familiarise physicians with the principles of CEUS and findings of scrotal trauma and illustrate the main abnormalities through characteristic and educative cases.

The adenomatoid tumors are rare benign mesothelial lesions that in males affect mainly the epididymis. They account for over one third of paratesticular tumors, and the treatment of choice has been surgical excision. The origin in testicular parenchyma or the tunica albuginea is extremely rare. Clinical signs and imaging studies are often inconclusive in differentiate from a more common malignant intratesticular solid tumour, which can result in unnecessary orchiectomies. We present a case of adenomatoid tumor of tunica albuginea where clinical suspicion and intraoperative frozen section analysis led to a partial orchiectomy.

The objective of this study was to determine the minimum representative area to evaluate testicular echotexture parenchyma and to identify the correlations between the intensity of pixels of the testicular parenchyma and the fibrosis score with the physical and morphological characteristics of the ejaculate of Texel rams. The study used 88 Texel rams, aged between 10 and 12 months, and reared in a semi-extensive system. The animals underwent breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) and ultrasound of the testicles. The images were transferred to a computer where they were defined in areas of 400, 1600, 3600, and 6400 mm2, after which the average intensity of the pixels of each image of the testicular regions was evaluated. A testicular fibrosis score was assigned in order to quantify the frequency of fibrotic lesions. In relation to the intensity of pixels of the predetermined regions, only the area of 400 mm2 presented a difference (P mm2 being the smallest area that best represented the testicular parenchyma. There were no correlations between the intensity of pixels of the testicular parenchyma and the fibrosis score with the physical and morphological characteristics of the ejaculate of the rams.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of successive bovine testicular punctures using different needle sizes. Fifteen bulls were submitted to testicular needle aspiration (TNA) in the left and right testis using 18-gauge (40×12mm) or 22-gauge (25×7mm) needles, respectively, once every 30 days. Animals were randomly divided into three groups, which were submitted to bilateral orchiectomy two days after the last puncture. Group 1 (G1): only one puncture (n=5); Group 2 (G2): three consecutive punctures in a period of three months (n=5); Group 3 (G3): six consecutive punctures in a period of 6 months (n=5). Fragments from the medial portion of the testicular parenchyma were excised and fixed in Bouin’s fluid for histological analysis. No differences were observed in the percentage of seminiferous tubules degeneration between G1, G2 and G3 (P>0.05). Higher amounts of erythrocyte were found in G1 and G2 groups compared to G3, in the intra- and intertubular tissue (P

Polyorchidism is a rare condition usually incidentally discovered in young patients investigated with ultrasound for unrelated reasons. It is characterized by the presence of unilateral or, rarely, bilateral supernumerary testes which, depending on the type of polyorchidism, may have their own epididymis and vas deferens. Ultrasound, including B-mode and color Doppler technique, represents the primary imaging modality for the evaluation of scrotal diseases, including the characterization of supernumerary testes, which normally appear identical to the ipsilateral testicular parenchyma on every ultrasonographic technique performed. The role of MRI is thus limited to confirming ultrasonographic findings and excluding the presence of malignancy. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound is a recently introduced ultrasonographic technique providing detailed and sensitive visualization of the perfusion pattern of structures. It can thus be added to the conventional ultrasonographic examination in order to establish the diagnosis, negating the use of more expensive and time-consuming imaging modalities. We present a young patient with an incidentally found supernumerary testis, where new distinctive ultrasonographic findings, like the identification of transmediastinal vessels and a cystic appendage along with the perfusion pattern on contrast-enhanced ultrasound, established the diagnosis of polyorchidism.

espanolRESUMEN El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar la ecotextura testicular de los toros Nelore y correlacionarlo con los parametros de espermatogenesis. Para este proposito, 41 toros de edades de 3-5 anos y con pesos corporales en el intervalo de 510,2 ± 21,61 kg fueron seleccionados para el estudio. Los toros se sometieron a ecografia, utilizando un dispositivo portatil junto con un transductor lineal a una frecuencia de 7,5 MHz. Inmediatamente despues, los animales fueron castrados, y el tejido testicular se trato con Karnovsky fijador. Los fragmentos testiculares se incluyeron en metacrilato de glicol y se tineron con una solucion de borato de sodio-azul de toluidina al 1%. La intensidad media de pixeles en el parenquima testicular se determino para secciones de superficie de 1.600 mm2. Los El area entre los dos testiculos derecho e izquierdo dieron lugar a la intensidad media de los pixeles de 105,22 ± 13,58, 107,95 ± 12,82 y 106,59 ± 11,43, respectivamente. El coeficiente de eficiencia de la mitosis espermatogonial fue 19,74; Indice meiotico fue 2,63, y el rendimiento global del espermatogenesis alcanzo el 52,0. No se observo correlacion (P>0,05) entre ecotextura testicular y cualquiera de los parametros morfometricos medidos. Estos resultados sugieren que ecotextura testicular no es un metodo viable para el analisis indirecto de la poblacion celular en el epitelio seminifero, el rendimiento de la espermatogenesis intrinseco, o el indice de celulas de Sertoli en toros Nelore. EnglishABSTRACT The objective of this study was to evaluate the testicular echotexture of Nelore bulls and to correlate it with spermatogenic parameters. Forty one bulls aged 3-5 years, with body weight of 510.2 ± 21.61 kg were selected for the study. The animals were subjected to ultrasonography, using a portable device coupled with a linear transducer at a frequency of 7.5 MHz. Immediately afterwards they were castrated and the testicular tissue was treated with Karnovsky fixative. Next, the fragments were embedded in glycol methacrylate and stained with toluidine blue-1% sodium borate solution. The average pixel intensity in the testicular parenchyma was determined for 1,600-mm2 surface sections. The right and left testicles and the area between the two testicles resulted in average pixel intensities of 105.22 ± 13.58, 107.95 ± 12.82, and 106.59 ± 11.43, respectively. The efficiency coefficient of spermatogonial mitosis was 19.74; meiotic index was 2.63, and overall yield of spermatogenesis was 52.0. No correlation (P>0.05) was observed between testicular echotexture and any of the measured morphometric parameters. These results suggest that testicular echotexture was not a viable method for the indirect analysis of cellular population in the seminiferous epithelium, intrinsic spermatogenic performance, or the Sertoli cell index in Nelore bulls.

The aim was to determine the proton MR (1H-MR) spectra of normal adult testes and variations with age. Forty-one MR spectra of normal testes, including 16 testes from men aged 20–39 years (group I) and 25 testes from men aged 40–69 years (group II), were analyzed. A single-voxel point-resolved spectroscopy sequence (PRESS), with TR/TE: 2000/25 ms was used. The volume of interest was placed to include the majority of normal testicular parenchyma. Association between normalized metabolite concentrations, defined as ratios of the calculated metabolite concentrations relative to creatine concentration, and age was assessed. Quantified metabolites of the spectra were choline (Cho), creatine (Cr), myo-inositol (mI), scyllo-inositol, taurine, lactate, GLx compound, glucose, lipids, and macromolecules resonating at 0.9 ppm (LM09), around 20 ppm (LM20), and at 13 ppm (LM13). Most prominent peaks were Cho, Cr, mI, and lipids. A weak negative correlation between mI and age (P = 0.015) was observed. Higher normalized concentrations of Cho (P = 0.03), mI (P = 0.08), and LM13 (P = 0.05) were found in group I than in group II. 1H-MR spectra of a normal adult testis showed several metabolite peaks. A decrease of levels of Cho, mI, and LM13 was observed with advancing age. • Single-voxel PRESS MRS of a normal testis is feasible. • 1H-MR spectra of a normal testis showed several metabolite peaks. • Most prominent peaks were Cho, Cr, mI, and lipids. • A decrease of Cho, mI, and LM13 was seen with advancing age.

Testicular trauma is relatively uncommon. However, severe injuries can result in many complications and should be carefully diagnosed and managed. We present a case of testicular fracture diagnosis made by ultrasonography. The surgical exploration revealed the fracture as well as complete rupture of the tunica albuginea. Testicular rupture is the disruption of the tunica albuginea, while testicular fracture is a “break” in the testicular parenchyma. Management could be conservative in mild fracture cases without rupture while suspected or confirmed fracture should be treated by surgical exploration.

A ultrassonografia é um método de diagnóstico por imagem que permite a avaliação de diferentes órgãos e estruturas corpóreas de maneira não invasiva. No entanto, a avaliação subjetiva das imagens caracteriza um dos grandes entraves na utilização desta técnica de diagnóstico, havendo necessidade de mecanismos que minimizem a subjetividade do exame e a divergência na interpretação dos achados ultrassonográficos. Desta forma este trabalho objetivou caracterizar a ecogenicidade do parênquima e mediastino testicular de ovinos utilizando a técnica do histograma escala-cinza. Foram utilizados 30 animais divididos em três grupos de acordo com a faixa etária (FE): de três a seis meses (FE1), sete a 12 meses (FE2), 13 a 18 meses (FE3) e realizadas varreduras testiculares nos planos frontal, sagital e transversal, elaborando ao final um histograma a partir das imagens ultrassonográficas. Observou-se que tanto a ecogenicidade do parênquima quanto a do mediastino testicular aumentaram gradativamente com a progressão das idades dos animais, com média e desvio-padrão de 95,00±19,05 e 94,35±18,82 para a ecogenicidade do parênquima do antímero direito e esquerdo, respectivamente, e 127,95±12,97 para o mediastino direito e 126,59±11,78 para o esquerdo. A técnica do histograma escala-cinza demonstrou ser um método eficiente na determinação da ecogenicidade testicular, possibilitando o estabelecimento de padrões de normalidade que venham a auxiliar pesquisas futuras no monitoramento do desenvolvimento testicular bem como na detecção de patologias. Para a regimes exclusivos de criação extensiva, como na baixada maranhense, representa ferramenta valiosa para sua utilização em projetos sociais do Estado que atendem a agricultura familiar. Ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging method that allows a no invasive evaluation of different organs and body structures. However, the personal evaluation of images is one of the major hampers in using this technique. In order to reduce this drawback, it is necessary to find out tools that can help diminish the divergence in the interpretation of sonographic findings. Therefore, this study aimed to identify features of the parenchyma's and mediastinum's testis of sheep echogenicity using the technique of gray scale histogram. 30 animals were divided into three groups according to age (FE): three to six months (FE1), seven to 12 months (FE2), 13 to 18 months (FE3). The testicular scans were performed in the frontal, sagital and transverse views, and the gray scale histograms were analyzed. It was observed that such parenchymal as the mediastinum testis echogenicity gradually increased with the aging of the animals, with mean and standard deviation of 95.00±19.05 and 94.35±18.82 for the echogenicity parenchyma of the right and left antimere, respectively, and 127.95±12.97 to 126.59±11.78, for the right and the left mediastinum. The technique of gray scale histogram was an efficient method for determination of testicular echogenicity, enabling the establishment of normal standards that may assist future research in monitoring testicular development as well as for detecting pathologies. For exclusive regimes of extensive farming, as the western lowland region of Maranhão, is a valuable tool for use in social projects of the State to attend the family farm.

Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the testicular parenchyma in pediatric patients with testicular microlithiasis by shear wave elastography (SWE) and compare the values with normal control subjects. Methods Twenty-three patients previously diagnosed with testicular microlithiasis under follow-up for 20 ± 11 months were included in the study group. In the control group, 31 patients with no medical history that could affect testicular tissue were prospectively included. Forty-six testes in the study group and 62 testes in the control group were evaluated with gray-scale ultrasound and SWE. Results There were no differences in age and testes volume between the study and control groups. The mean SWE values of all testes based on elasticity and speed parameters in the study group were 8.84 ± 2.86 kPa and 1.66 ± 0.26 m/s, respectively. In the control group, mean SWE values were 5.26 ± 1.17 kPa and 1.31 ± 0.14 m/s, respectively. Elasticity values were significantly higher in testes with microlithiasis as compared with the control group (p Conclusions SWE evaluation demonstrates the effects of ultrastructural changes in elasticity that are not detected on gray-scale ultrasound. SWE is a more reliable method in follow-up examinations for pediatric testicular microlithiasis.

Splenogonadal fusion (SGF) is a rare congenital anomaly. Less than 200 cases of SGF have been documented till date. We present a case of 14-year-old male patient with swelling in the left scrotum for 3 years. Left orchidectomy was done. Histopathology showed ectopic splenic tissue surrounding testicular parenchyma suggestive of SGF. This rare congenital malformation may occur due to the proximity of developing gonad and spleen, resulting in abnormal connection between them during gestation. SGF presents a diagnostic challenge preoperatively; however, recent imaging methods can aid with the diagnosis. SGF as a rare cause of testicular swelling should be kept in mind and evaluated to avoid unnecessary orchidectomy.

Summary Intratesticular varicocele is an uncommon condition with variable sonographic appearence and identified as dilated intratesticular veins lying from the mediastinum through testicular parenchyma. We present a case of a 20-year-old male, married and unable to conceive for 2 years. Routine scrotal sonography disclosed extratesticular varicocele which was associated with ipsilateral intratesticular varicocele. Colour Doppler ultrasonography should be the first choice modality of imaging to confirm the diagnosis. Detection of intratesticular varicocele is essential because it is one of the most common recoverable reasons of male infertility.

The usefulness of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) in the evaluation of scrotal pathology has recently been reported. A standard reference of normal testicular apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values and their variations with age is necessary when interpreting normal testicular anatomy and pathology. We evaluated 147 normal testes using DWI, including 71 testes from 53 men aged 20-39 years (group 1), 67 testes from 42 men aged 40-69 years (group 2) and nine testes from six men older than 70 years (group 3). DWI was performed along the axial plane, using a single shot, multislice spin-echo planar diffusion pulse sequence and b-values of 0 and 900 s mm−2 . The mean and standard deviation of the ADC values of normal testicular parenchyma were calculated for each age group separately. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post hoc analysis (Dunnett T3) was used for statistical purposes. The ADC values (× 10−3 mm 2 s−1 ) of normal testicular tissue were different among age groups (group 1: 1.08 ± 0.13; group 2: 1.15 ± 0.15 and group 3: 1.31 ± 0.22). ANOVA revealed differences in mean ADC among age groups (F = 11.391, P < 0.001). Post hoc analysis showed differences between groups 1 and 2 (P = 0.008) and between groups 1 and 3 (P = 0.043), but not between groups 2 and 3 (P = 0.197). Our findings suggest that ADC values of normal testicular tissue increase with advancing age.

Ovotesticular syndrome (OTS) belongs to the group of disorders of sex development (DSD). We present a case of a patient with OTS presenting with acute labioscrotal pain. A surgical exploration was indicated, and hemorrhage was identified. A gonadectomy was performed and the final pathology report revealed an ovotestis with a bleeding follicle, normal ovarian parenchyma and atrophic testicular parenchyma. After reviewing the literature there is scarce information on this complex topic, but conservative management could be an option if the risk of a gonadal malignancy is low.

The objective of this study was to describe the pattern of testicular echogenicity and the degree of commitment caused by fibrotic lesions in semen quality in adult Nelore bulls. A total of 402 extensively raised adult Nelore bulls were evaluated for breeding soundness and submitted to ultrasound examinations of their testes. Additionally, a testicular fibrosis score ranging from 0 to 5 was assigned to each bull to quantify the patterns, sizes and frequencies of the fibrotic lesions. No correlation was detected among the studied semen features and the pixel intensity values of the studied images. The testicular fibrosis score was only slightly correlated with scrotal circumference, testicular volume, and animal age. The other examined features did not correlate with the studied ultrasound parameters ( p >0.05). No correlation was detected between the fibrosis score and testicular sperm quality ( p >0.05). Thus, the appearance of the testicular parenchyma of the adult bulls did not correlate with breeding ability. Moreover, the varying degrees of testicular fibrosis did not appear to affect sperm quality. As a result, ultrasonic evaluation of the testes is not a useful tool for evaluating breeding soundness in old Nelore bulls.

Summary The objective of the research was to evaluate the efficiency of the spermatogenesis through the morphology of the testicular parenchyma in bulls of different zebu breeds. We used testicular fragments from bull of the breeds Nelore (n = 10), Polled Nelore (n = 6), Gyr (n = 5), Guzerat (n = 5) and Tabapua (n = 5). The tissue was perfused with Karnovsky solution, included in glycol methacrylate and stained with toluidine blue–sodium borate 1%. Animals of the Nelore breed presented higher population of primary spermatocyte in pre-leptotene/leptotene (38.30) and in pachytene (38.14) and round spermatids (113.30), higher yield of spermatogonia mitosis (21.2) and higher daily spermatic production per gram of testicular parenchyma (32.8 × 106) than those from breeds Gyr, Guzerat and Tabapua and higher general yield of spermatogenesis (62.4) than breeds Gyr and Tabapua. There was no significant difference in any of the evaluated parameters between breeds Nelore and Polled Nelore. The rate of Sertoli cells did not vary between the studied breeds. Apparently, the genetic selection applied to the breeds has been improving the yield in the spermatogenic process by decreasing cellular loss, although it did not increase the support capacity of the Sertoli cells.

Kaposiform haemangioendothelioma is a very rare vascular tumour of intermediate (borderline) malignancy, typically occurring in the skin and soft tissues of the extremities in infants and children. We report two morphologically and immunophenotypically classical cases occurring in the testicular parenchyma of old adults, review the literature on vascular tumours of the testis and discuss the differential diagnosis of these unusual cases.

Testicular hemangiomas are rare benign vascular tumors that arise from the inner layer of the tunica albuginea, which serves as the conduit between the testicular parenchyma and its supplying blood vessels and lymphatics.1 Although hemangiomas are commonly found in other organs of the body, their incidence within the testicle appears quite low, as evidenced by 50 fewer reports as of 2015, despite increasingly widespread use of ultrasound in the clinical setting.2

The effect of chloroform extracts from seeds of the papaya plant (Carica papaya) on the spermatic characteristics of dogs was evaluated at doses of 50, 100 and 150 mg/kg, Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Structural and ultrastructural changes in sperm cells and testicular parenchyma were also evaluated, and possible side effects were noted. Significant reductions in sperm concentration and motility were observed starting from Days 60 and 75, respectively, in all treated groups (P0.05), but no azoospermia was noted. A mild osmotic diarrhea occurred in dogs from Group 3 (150 mg/kg), although blood variables were within the normal range of a clinically healthy dog. Arrested spermatogenesis was observed in the seminiferous tubules of all treated groups, and vacuolization and signs of Sertoli cell degeneration were detected in all treated groups, particularly in Group 3 (150 mg/kg). Selective damage to Sertoli cells induced by the extract occurred in all treated groups independently of the extract concentration. Alteration of the epididymal environment may reduce the motility of sperm cells, considering that their structure was normal. Sperm characteristics in treated animals were considered to be similar to those of sub-fertile dogs. However, these effects may be temporary, and dogs may recover normal sperm characteristics when the extract is withdrawn.

Made available in DSpace on 2015-02-02T12:39:19Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2014-08-01Bitstream added on 2015-02-02T13:08:10Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0102-09352014000401296.pdf: 105664 bytes, checksum: 0a9dd0ae333be4e7778cba0d527f4b25 (MD5) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq) Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) The present study aimed to evaluate if there are differences in testicular parenchyma echogenicity between pre-pubescent and pubescent animals at the same age. Ultrasound examinations were performed in longitudinal and transversal planes of the testicles of 111 healthy Nelore bovines, at the ages of nine, 13 and 15 months. The EIV software calculated the echogenicity of the testicular parenchyma, which ranged from 0 (anechoic) to 100% (hyperechoic). Animals that had reached puberty at 15 months of age presented higher testicular echogenicity than the animals that had not reached puberty at the same age. These results suggest that testicular ultrasonography can be used as a predictor of sexual precocity. UFPA Unesp FCAV CRV Estação Experimental de Zootecnia Unesp FCAV

Despite its extensive use for evaluation of spermatogenesis and assisted reproduction, the safety and consequences of fine (FNA) and large needle aspiration (LNA) to the testicular parenchyma and its normal function have not been established. This study was performed in order to accurately assess, by serial in vitro ultrasonographic, bacteriologic, gross anatomic and histological examinations, the type and extent of the effect of FNA or LNA on the dog's testis. Twenty three sexually mature, 1 to 2 years old, healthy laboratory Beagles were randomly assigned to 2 groups: (1) 5 dogs without testicular aspiration (control group) and (2) 18 dogs in which one of their testes was aspirated using a 23 G butterfly needle and the other using a 19 G butterfly needle (experimental group). Two dogs at a time were castrated 10 minutes, 60 minutes, 2, 14, 29, 63, 76, 90 or 180 days post-aspiration. The control group was also castrated 2, 29, 63, 90 or 180 days after the beginning of the experiment. Following castration, in vitro ultrasonographic, gross anatomic, cytological examinations of epididymal sperm, bacteriologic and histological examinations of the testes were performed. Following testicular FNA and LNA bacteriologic, gross anatomic, histologic, epididymal sperm findings and the in vitro ultrasonographic appearance of the testis were normal, except of intratesticular haemorrhage, detected the first days post-aspiration, and degeneration of less than 1.5% of the seminiferous tubules. Within the parameters of this experiment, testicular FNA and LNA have no ill effect on the canine testis and therefore, both FNA and LNA should be considered safe.

The safety and consequences of fine- (FNA) and large-needle aspiration (LNA) to the testicular parenchyma and its normal function have not been thoroughly established. This study was performed to accurately assess, by serial clinical, in vivo ultrasonographic and seminological examinations, the type and extent of the effect of FNA or LNA on canine testes. Eighteen sexually mature, 1-2 years old, healthy laboratory Beagles were used. One of their testes was aspirated using a 23-G butterfly needle (FN) and the other using a 19-G butterfly needle (LN). Two dogs at a time were orchiectomized 10, 60 min, 2, 14, 29, 63, 76, 90 or 180 days post-aspiration. Five and 2 days and 1 h before aspiration (in all dogs), immediately post-aspiration, and 1, 2, 4, 7, 9, 14, 19, 29, 35, 43, 49, 56, 63, 70, 76, 90, 111, 132 and 180 days post-aspiration (in the remaining intact dogs), evaluation of scrotal surface temperature over each testis, evaluation of scrotum-testis volume by electronic sliding callipers, ultrasonographic evaluation of testicular volume and texture and clinical and semen examination were performed. Following FNA and LNA, the clinical and ultrasonographic appearance of the testis were normal. Sperm production nearly always remained unchanged, with the exception of a slight decrease in spermatozoal motility 2-14 days post-aspiration. However, even then, with the exception of six samples, spermatozoal motility was above normal values. Within the parameters of this experiment, testicular FNA and LNA have no ill effect on sperm production or clinical and ultrasonographic appearance of the canine testis, and therefore, both FNA and LNA should be considered safe.

The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the ultrasonographic patterns of the testicles parenchyma, mediastinum and tunics in young Nellore bulls with absence of echogenicity and relative density changes. Testes of 111 animals underwent clinical and ultrasonographic evaluation at 9, 13, and 15 months of age. Testicular parenchyma presented uniform pattern at low echogenicity. Positive correlation was found between age and testicular mediastinum. Testicular tunics were distinguished only in presence of fluid. The results of this research contribute with andrologic evaluation, allowing early detection of testicular disorders. KEYWORDS: Echography, Nellore Bulls, reproductive tract.

Quantitative analysis of testis structure was performed during early post-natal development in Wistar rats. For this purpose, at 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 60 and 90 days after birth, weights and volumes of testes were recorded and fixed in Bouin's solution. For stereological studies, 5-μm paraffin sections were stained with haematoxylin-eosin. Relative and then absolute volumes of seminiferous tubules, germinal epithelium, seminiferous tubuli lumina and interstitial tissue were estimated by point-counting method. The results showed that weight and volume of testis in rats increase 75- and 86.28-fold during post-natal development, respectively. The greatest growth rate (2.96-fold) of testis was observed between days 35 and 42. Also, diameter of seminiferous tubules increased significantly (P

Testicular biopsies were performed in hospital conditions on 451 patients by whom was diagnosed oligozoospermia (56,5%), azoospermia (41,9%), teratozoospermia (1,2%) and aspermia (0,4%). 95,5% of these biopsies were bilateral. Anatomic peculiarities as well as particularities and complications observed during the operations, and lastly postoperative complications were demonstrated in this contingent of patients. In order to obtain this result the clinical documents of the department of andrology of the university hospital Hamburg-Eppendorf were used. Adhesions of the tunical layers of the testis (28,3%), as well as hydroceles (35,7%), and increased vascularisation (20,9%) could be seen in the operation field. We considered as the most frequent intraoperative step a second skin cut (4,6%). In 3,0% of the cases it was not possible to obtain a testicular parenchyma. As complication during the operation the sliding of the epididymis was observed in 4,8%, and bleeding in 2,0% of the cases. The most frequent complication after operation was bleeding in the region of the skin's suture (1,2%). Patients who presented intraoperative complications bleeded most. Orchitis and epididymitis as postoperative complications were not observed. To prevent these complications the testicular biopsies should be done in hospital conditions by well experienced operation teams.

There is a close correlation between the angioarchitecture of the human testis and its inner subdivision into testicular lobules. Serial sections from paraffin and epon-embedded testicular tissue were used to examine the angioarchitecture of the human testis, and computer-aided 3-D-reconstruction was used to demonstrate the correlation between blood vessels and tissue organization. The recurrent arteries arise from the centripetal arteries, and run in the central axis of the testicular lobule. At regular intervals of on average, 300 microns the segmental arteries arise from the recurrent artery, which supplies segments of the testicular parenchyma perpendicular to the long axis of the testicular lobules. Within such a segment, the segmental artery supplies the microvasculature, which is partly surrounded by Leydig cells and partly stands in close contact with the wall of the seminiferous tubules. The venous drainage occurs through the intralobular veins, which run to the periphery of the lobule (towards the septum). These veins lead into the septum and there they join the collecting veins. A lobule can have several segments depending on its size. The base of such a tissue segment is directed towards the septum whereas the top is directed towards the centre of the lobule. Sections of several seminiferous tubules can be found in such a segment. The flow of blood from the arterial to the venous side of the testicular circulation occurs radially from the centre of the lobule to the septum.

Summary Scrotal enlargement is a problem in stallions that often leads to poor semen quality. Although there are many causes for scrotal enlargement, testicular neoplasia is often high on the differential list, especially in an aged stallion. This case report describes a stallion with scrotal enlargement caused by a rare neoplasia located in the tunica vaginalis, and not in the testicular parenchyma. Diagnosis of mesothelioma was made following hemicastration. Prognosis in other species is variable, but this stallion returned to his successful breeding career following treatment and has remained healthy one year following the diagnosis.

Varicose veins of the spermatic cord and testis membranes play a key role in the development of male infertility. Aim. To study the structural features of the bloodstream and testicular parenchyma in terms of varicose veins of the spermatic cord and testis membranes. Meyhods and results. In 23 testicular preparations taken from men of mature age convoluted seminiferous tubules diameter, number of cells of spermatogenic epithelium and interstitial endocrinocytes nuclei volume were studied using macro- and microscopic morphometric methods. It was established that in varicocele testis volume, diameter of convoluted seminiferous tubules and interstitial endocrinocytes nuclei volume significantly reduced. Conclusion. This indicates the presence of circulatory hypoxia of testicles, which leads to a decrease in the volume of interstitial endocrinocytes nuclei by 31%, thereby reducing their functional properties.

Submitted by (lucia.rodrigues@ufrpe.br) on 2016-05-31T12:03:46Z No. of bitstreams: 1 Anna Kelly de Lima Pontes Venancio.pdf: 1035454 bytes, checksum: 3e71ac64c4a92627a7ead6a5f6bc4e4a (MD5) Made available in DSpace on 2016-05-31T12:03:46Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Anna Kelly de Lima Pontes Venancio.pdf: 1035454 bytes, checksum: 3e71ac64c4a92627a7ead6a5f6bc4e4a (MD5) Previous issue date: 2015-05-29 Aiming to evaluate the different levels of alfalfa hay on morphometric and qualitative parameters of the testicular parenchyma and serum testosterone levels in sheep (Ovisaries) of mixed breeds, 40 sheep were used in growth, with average body weight of 26 ± 1.85 kg to approximately eight months of age. The animals were subjected to 100 days confinement (with 44 days for adaptation to management and 56 days for the administration of the experimental diets). The treatments consisted of four levels of alfalfa hay: 0%, 20%, 40% and 60%, so was maintained proportion of 60% forage for all diets. At the end of the experiment, blood collection was performed for serum testosterone measurement and weighing of animals. After slaughter, the complex testicle-epididymis were removed and individually weighed, after we calculated the GSI. Histological sections were obtained (4 mm) of testicle, which were stained with hematoxylin-Phloxine and Toluidine Blue, mounted with entelan and analyzed morphologically and morphometrically in optical microscope. The body weight, scrotal circumference and IGS showed no statistical difference neither regression effect. Among the tubular parameters, height and epithelium area suffered decreasing linear effect. The volumetric ratio, the tunic, the individual volumes and the total Leydig cells as well as blood vessels suffered increasing linear regression effect. In sperm production there was also much effect regression as statistical difference, besides the regression suffered by the rounded number of spermatids per section. Thus, it was concluded that the inclusion of alfalfa a ratio above 20% is not recommended for breeding sheep because it compromises the testicular parenchyma. Objetivando-se avaliar os diferentes níveis de feno de alfafa sobre os parâmetros morfométricos e qualitativos do parênquima testicular e níveis séricos de testosterona em ovinos (ovis aries) sem raça definida, foram utilizados 40 carneiros em crescimento, com peso corporal médio inicial de 26 ± 1,85 kg e oito meses de idade aproximadamente. Os animais foram submetidos ao confinamento de 100 dias(sendo 44 dias para adaptação ao manejo e 56 dias para a administração das dietas experimentais). Os tratamentos foram compostos por quatro níveis de feno alfafa: 0%, 20%, 40% e 60%, de modo que foi mantida proporção de 60% de volumoso para todas as rações. Ao final do confinamento, foi realizada a coleta de sangue para dosagem de testosterona sérica e pesagem dos animais. Após o abate, os complexos testículo-epidídimo foram removidos e pesados individualmente, logo após foi calculado o índice gonadossomático. Foram obtidos cortes histológicos (4 μm) do testículo, os quais foram corados em Hematoxilina-Floxina e Azul de Toluidina, montados com Entelan e analisados morfologicamente e morfometricamente em microscópio Óptico.O peso corporal, biometria testicular e IGS não apresentaram diferença estatística nem efeito de regressão. Dentre os parâmetros tubulares, a altura e área de epitélio sofreram efeito linear decrescente. Na proporção volumétrica,a túnica própria, os volumes total e individual das células de Leydig,assim como os vasos sanguíneos sofreram efeito de regressão linear crescente. Na produção espermática também houve tanto efeito de regressão quanto diferença estatística, além da regressão sofrida pelo número de espermátides arredondadas por secção. Desta forma, foi possível concluir que a inclusão de alfafa numa proporção acima de 20% não é recomendada para ovinos reprodutores, pois compromete o parênquima testicular.

We present ultrasonographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings of intratesticular adrenal rests in a 16-year-old patient with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Scrotal ultrasonography showed bilateral well-delineated homogenous hypoechoic lesions located around the mediastinum testis, which were highly vascularized on power Doppler ultrasonography. Relative to normal testicular parenchyma the lesions were iso- or hyperintense on T1-weighted and hypointense on T2-weighted images. T2-weighted images also showed a target-like appearance caused by a more hypointense peripheral halo around the lesions. The lesions enhanced remarkably on post-contrast images. This case suggests that radiological evaluation of testes, even in the presence of normal physical examination findings, should be included in periodical follow-up of patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is useful in demonstrating the lesions, because the contrast resolution better than with ultrasonography.

Avaliou-se o efeito da ivermectina sobre o parênquima testicular através da produção espermática diária e da eficiência da espermatogênese em ratos Wistar adultos tratados com diferentes dosagens (200, 400 e 600µg/kg). Pela avaliação histomorfométrica, o parênquima testicular e o processo espermatogênico dos ratos Wistar não sofreram qualquer efeito deletério da aplicação de ivermectina, o que foi confirmado pela manutenção da produção espermática diária por testículo, pelo rendimento intrínseco da espermatogênese (PED/g/t) e pela manutenção da estrutura do parênquima testicular. Com base nos resultados quantitativos e qualitativos da espermatogênese, é possível concluir que a ivermectina não tem efeito tóxico-degenerativo sobre o parênquima testicular de ratos Wistar adultos.