Is testicular microlithiasis (calcifications) linked to TC?

[ByeByeMrRighty]

I was diagnosed and cured from TC 5 years ago. "Numerous calcifications" were seen at the time on ultrasound.

My remaining testicle has "a cluster of calcifications measuring 0.3 x 0.2 x 0.2 cm."
Varicocele of the veins, measuring up to 0.4 cm, as well.

Does the science show a link? Cheers in advance.

[Mike]

In the past, there were thoughts that microlithiasis was related to testicular cancer, perhaps even a precursor, for lack of a better term. However, I believe this is old thinking and that newer data indicated that they are often in association with each other, but not related or a precursor.

Thus, microlithasis is not risk factor for testicular cancer but given your past history with the disease I think most doctors would say monthly self-exams are important and some may be cautious and just watch the other testicle via ultrasound perhaps on a yearly basis in those at high risk for TC.

Mike

[ByeByeMrRighty]

Thank you, Mike. I appreciate you putting it into perspective for me. It's been years since I've posted on the forums, but I will always remember you giving me thoughtful, evidence-based answers. Thanks for everything.

My research confirms your conclusion. From Hopskins Medicine:

"Microlithiasis, or small calcifications (stones) in the testicle found on ultrasound, was once believed to be a risk factor for testicular cancer. Microlithiasis is not a risk factor for testicular cancer for most men; however, if one of the other risk factors (above) exists, microlithiasis may indicate a higher risk of cancer and warrants monthly testicular self-examination and routine follow-up with a physician."

Having been diagnosed with TC, is, of course, a risk risk factor. My testicle that was removed had "numerous calcifications;" makes me nervous that my healthy testicle has them too. Oh well, what can you do. There's only like a 1-2% chance of bilateral anyways.

It looks like about 5% of the general male population have microlithiasis. I'd be curious to know what percent of people diagnosed with TC also had microlithiasis on ultrasound. I found one study that says: "microcalcifications do exist in roughly 50% of germ cell tumors," from 2007.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17921777/

Cheers

[Mike]

Thanks for your kind words.

I think that microlithiasis and testicular cancer often occur together but microlithiasis is not a cause or a precursor of testis cancer.

Unlike germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) that does seem to develop into testis cancer in 50% of patients within 5 years.

Mike