Testicular biopsy is a procedure to obtain a sample of tissue from the testicles for examination. The testicles are the male reproductive organs, which produce sperm and the hormone testosterone.

The biopsy can be performed in many ways. The method used is determined by the reason for the biopsy and the patient's and doctor's desires.

Open biopsy may be done in the health care provider's office, a surgical center, or at a hospital. The skin over the testicle is cleaned with an antiseptic (germ-killing) solution. The area around it will be covered with a sterile towel. A local anesthetic will be given to numb the area. A small incision is made through the skin, and a small piece of the testicle tissue is removed. A stitch is used to close the opening in the testicle, and another stitch closes the skin incision. If necessary, the procedure will be repeated for the other testicle.

Needle biopsy is usually done in the health care provider's office. The area is cleaned and local anesthesia is used just as in the open biopsy. A sample of the testicle is obtained using a special needle that does not require an incision in the skin. The patient should only feel pressure or discomfort similar to a pin prick.

Depending on the reason for the test, a needle biopsy may not be possible or recommended by the physician.

Adults:

As a general rule, you should not take aspirin or medications that contain aspirin for 1 week prior to the procedure. Ask your doctor before discontinuing any medications.

Children:

The preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, previous experiences, and level of trust. Testicle biopsy is seldom performed in children younger than 12. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years).

There will be a sting when the anesthetic is given.

The test is usually performed to determine the cause of male infertility when a semen analysis suggests that there is abnormal sperm and other tests have not determined the cause.

Testicle biopsy may also be performed when testicular self-examination has revealed a lump. When tests such as testicular ultrasound suggest that the lump may be benign, your health care provider may recommend a biopsy to determine whether the lump is cancerous or benign. If ultrasound or biopsy suggests the lump is cancerous, the entire testicle is usually removed.