MRI findings of nonobstructive azoospermia: lesions in and out of pelvic cavity

Abdom Radiol (NY). 2020 Jul;45(7):2213-2224. doi: 10.1007/s00261-019-02232-8.

Abstract

Nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) can be caused by various diseases, including congenital disorders, endocrine disorders, infections, tumor or tumor-like diseases, vascular diseases, etc. Diagnosis of the underlying cause of NOA is complicated and challenging. In this study, we introduce an MR examination protocol for the etiological diagnosis of NOA, and demonstrate a series of NOA patients with different causes and imaging findings. Except for lesions of testes, the patients may also combine abnormalities of adrenal glands and central nervous system. In such cases, the patients could benefit from additional abdominal and intracranial scans.

Keywords: Functional imaging; MRI; Nonobstructive azoospermia; Small surface coil; Testes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Abdomen
  • Azoospermia* / diagnostic imaging
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Pelvis
  • Testis