Tubular ectasia of the rete testes

Ray Ballinger, MD, PhD

Straub Clinic and Hospital

rballinger at straub.net

Abstract

74 y/o male with right epididymal pain

Keywords

pelvis US testes

Publication Date: 21 May 2004
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History and Images

74 y/o male with right epididymal pain

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Findings

Saggital and transverse views shows a multi-cystic area in the posterior of the left testis in the region of the mediastinum. A varicocele is noted posterior to the testis on the transverse image. The third image shows a similar but somewhat smaller area in the right testis. Color doppler shows absence of blood flow in the multicystic region in the testis.

Diagnosis

Tubular ectasia of the rete testes

Discussion

Tubular ectasia of the rete testes is a benign condition that is usually found bilaterally. It is commonly assymetric as in this case and rarely unilateral. Absence of blood flow and its characteristic appearance and location is diagnostic. Tubular ectasia is frequently associated with spematoceles and testicular cysts.

References

  1. Kurtz, AB & Middleton, WD. Ultrasound: The Requisites. Mosby 1996.