Tunica albuginea cyst
Tunica albuginea (TA) cysts are the most common extratesticular benign scrotal mass lesion. They are a type of scrotal tunica cyst.
Epidemiology
Their mean age at presentation is 40 years (although may be seen in the 5 and 6 decades).
Clinical presentation
They are usually palpable.
Pathology
They arise from the tunica albuginea, a fibrous layer below the tunica vaginalis which closely covers the testicle. The exact pathogenesis of tunica albuginea cysts is not known but it is believed to arise from the mesothelia.
Location
They are characteristically located at the upper anterior or lateral aspect of the testicle.
Radiographic features
Ultrasound
Ultrasound is the first line modality for imaging.
- typically seen as an anechoic paratesticular cyst
- usually ~2-5 mm in diameter
- sharply demarcated
- unilocular or multilocular
- no solid components
- no disturbance of the adjacent testicular tissue
- rarely calcify
- occasional milk of calcium or even a complex appearance
Differential diagnosis
On ultrasound consider:
See also
