Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology of the Testis: Can It Be a Single Diagnostic Modality in Azoospermia?

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine whether fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) of testis alone is sufficient to diagnose testicular function and whether follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) estimation can be safely eliminated from the evaluation protocol of the azoospermic subject. Materials and Methods: We studied 46 adult azoospermic males who were infertile for more than 2 years following marriage. Hormonal profile was done in all. Later all 46 patients were subjected to bilateral FNAC of the testes. The cytological findings were correlated with histological findings. Results: We found 95.65% agreement between FNAC and testicular biopsy. Though serum FSH estimation was done in all patients in this series, in none of the cases did it affect overall management. Conclusion: FNAC is a quick, safe and minimally invasive modality. Following a well-performed semen analysis in an azoospermic subject, it appears that FNAC may be the only investigation needed. It provides a reliable diagnosis in patients with either obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia. Routine estimation of FSH can be omitted from the investigative protocol in these patients.

836 The validity of testicular aspirate cytology and DNA image analysis of the aspirate in the assessment of infertile men

“…Our results agree with those of previous studies comparing FNA and open testicular biopsy [22][23][24]. In four of the present patients diagnosed with hypospermatogenesis by FNA, the histological diagnosis might suggest no active spermatogenesis, i.e.…”

Fine needle aspiration cytology of the testis as the first‐line diagnostic modality in azoospermia: a comparative study of cytology and histology

“…One drawback of this technique could be that quantitative assessment of the status of seminiferous tubules was not feasible. 7 The technique provided a reliable diagnosis in patients with either obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia. This fact was probably responsible for majority of the discrepant cases in our series (Table 2).…”

Role of Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology in Nonneoplastic Testicular and Scrotal Lesions and Male Infertility

“…According to a recent study, in cases of obstructive and nonobstructive azoospermia, FSH can be omitted from the investigative protocol. 15 In cases of nonobstructive azoospermia, multiple passes with a fine needle can be performed, instead of open testicular biopsy, for sperm extraction. 16 Absence of spermatogenesis is seen in azoospermia due to severe atrophy, Sertoli cell only syndrome and Leydig cell hyperplasia.…”