E4845. Multimodality Imaging of the Male Reproductive System With Anatomy-Pathology Correlation
Authors
Juliet Alla;
Department of Radiology, UC San Diego Health
Claire Meriwether;
Department of Radiology, UC San Diego Health
Holly Cassidy;
No Affiliation
Ryan Mirza;
No Affiliation
Fiona Hughes;
Department of Radiology, UC San Diego Health; Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Noushin Vahdat;
Department of Radiology, UC San Diego Health; Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Lejla Aganovic;
Department of Radiology, UC San Diego Health; Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Background
The male reproductive system is comprised of an anatomically complex array of glands and tracts that work in concert to conduct spermatozoa from the testes to the penis. The diversity of these structures and the multiplicity of imaging modalities routinely used to visualize them pose a unique challenge in differentiating normal versus abnormal. As imaging techniques become more refined and allow radiologists to visualize greater detail, being able to identify the normal anatomy of the male reproductive system is essential to recognize common anatomic variants as well as disease processes.
Educational Goals / Teaching Points
The purpose of this educational exhibit is to review the anatomy of the male reproductive system across multiple imaging modalities including fluoroscopy, ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Examples of anatomic variants and pathology will also be shown to demonstrate how identifying the exact anatomic site of origin can help to diagnose the correct pathology. Ultimately, the goal of the exhibit is to provide a solid foundation, which the practicing radiologist can use to refine their differential diagnoses and resolve diagnostic uncertainties.
Key Anatomic/Physiologic Issues and Imaging Findings/Techniques
This exhibit will review the normal anatomy of the male reproductive system across multiple imaging modalities including fluoroscopy, ultrasound, CT, and MRI, with a particular focus on MRI. The normal imaging appearance of the testis, epididymis, spermatic cord, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, ejaculatory ducts, prostate gland, urethra, and penis will be described and illustrated. Side-by-side images will be provided to pair normal anatomy with anatomic variants and pathology to highlight differences. Examples of pathology that will be shown include polyorchidism, ectasia of the rete testis and epididymis, sarcoma of the spermatic cord, vasitis, Müllerian duct cyst, ejaculatory duct cyst, central prostate zone cancer, Cowper’s syringocele, and penile trauma.
Conclusion
It is essential for the practicing radiologist to be comfortable recognizing the normal appearance of the male reproductive anatomy on multiple modalities and anatomic variants to be able to identify abnormal findings. This exhibit will provide a thorough and practical review of the male reproductive anatomy and its appearance across multiple imaging modalities.
