Testicular Biopsy

A testicular biopsy is the removal of a small amount of tissue from a testicle for purposes of pathological screening under a microscope. This type of biopsy may be needed to evaluate a lump that is found within a testicle, to investigate the reason for male infertility, and/or when a semen analysis reveals abnormal sperm that can’t be explained by other means. The procedure can be performed via “open” approach, where a small incision is made in the tissue and a sample removed by snipping it with a surgical scissors, or via an in-office needle biopsy. The test can help not only in the diagnosis of testicular cancer but also in the diagnosis of benign testicular issues including a blockage, spermatocele or inflammation known as orchitis.