Testicular biopsy is a procedure in which a small portion of
testicle is removed for examination. The biopsy is performed by
creating a small incision in the skin of the scrotum. A small piece
of the testicle tissue is removed through the incision by snipping
the sample off with small scissors. The test is usually performed
when a semen analysis suggests that there is abnormal sperm, and
other tests have not determined the cause. It may also be performed
when testicular self-examination has revealed a lump.
Review Date: 09/03/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of
Medicine; Scott Miller, MD, Urologist in private practice in
Atlanta, Georgia. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical
Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
