The role of multiparametric ultrasound in the diagnosis of paediatric scrotal pathology

Br J Radiol. 2020 Jun;93(1110):20200063. doi: 10.1259/bjr.20200063. Epub 2020 Apr 23.

Abstract

Multiparametric ultrasound (MPUS), combining conventional techniques (greyscale and colour Doppler ultrasound), ultrasound strain elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), has been successfully used in the assessment of adult scrotal pathology. Contrast-enhanced ultrasound can confidently establish testicular tissue vascularity even in the small-volume paediatric testis. Elastography provides further assessment of tissue stiffness, potentially adding useful diagnostic information. In children, ultrasonography is particularly advantageous, being safe, radiation-free and negating the need for sedation or general anaesthesia during the imaging evaluation. In this review article, we aim to familiarise readers with the MPUS scanning protocol used for paediatric scrotal examination and provide an overview of scrotal MPUS features, with particular focus to clinical indications where MPUS may be advantageous over conventional ultrasonography.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abscess / diagnostic imaging
  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Child
  • Contraindications, Drug
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage
  • Contrast Media / adverse effects
  • Cysts / diagnostic imaging
  • Echocardiography, Doppler, Color
  • Elasticity Imaging Techniques / methods
  • Epididymitis / diagnostic imaging
  • Genital Diseases, Male / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Infarction / diagnostic imaging
  • Lipoma / diagnostic imaging
  • Male
  • Phospholipids / administration & dosage
  • Phospholipids / adverse effects
  • Scrotum / diagnostic imaging*
  • Scrotum / injuries
  • Spermatic Cord Torsion / diagnostic imaging
  • Sulfur Hexafluoride / administration & dosage
  • Sulfur Hexafluoride / adverse effects
  • Testicular Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Testis / blood supply
  • Testis / diagnostic imaging
  • Testis / injuries
  • Ultrasonography / methods*

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Phospholipids
  • contrast agent BR1
  • Sulfur Hexafluoride