Cryptorchidism: diagnostic performance of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in comparison with Ultrasound

Abstract

Background: Undescended testis is a well recognized clinical problem in infants and young male , as well as being a frequent finding in adult individuals .Aim of work : To compare the results of MRI and ultrasound in the localization of undescended testis , in order to choose the line of treatment .Method : The study was conducted in two general hospitals in Baghdad between Oct. 2012 --- April 2013. Forty male patients with undescended testis ( 6 months ---20 years ) underwent abdominal and pelvic MRI as well as inguinal and pelvic U/ S to identify testicular location , findings were reviewed by three observers independently and compared with surgical and / or clinical follow up study.Results : Ultrasound succeeded in localizing 21 cases of undescended testis with sensitivity 83.3 % specificity 100% and accuracy 90 % . On the other hand MRI was able to demonstrate 24 cases with sensitivity 96%, specificity 100% and accuracy 97.5 % .Conclusion: Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a useful imaging tool in the localization and tissue characterization of a undescended testis , especially with the use of i.v contrast injection which is helpful in suspected cases of testicular atrophy and cases of abdominal and pelvic testis , however, ultrasound must be the first line of imaging investigation as it is readily available and fast, but highly operator dependent .