Andrology. 2021 Aug 22. doi: 10.1111/andr.13101. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Testicular MRI parameters, including apparent diffusion coefficient, fractional anisotropy, magnetization transfer ratio and normalized metabolite concentrations represent useful noninvasive fingerprints of nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA). NOA etiology might correlate with the spermatogenesis status.
OBJECTIVES: To assess possible association between apparent diffusion coefficient, fractional anisotropy, magnetization transfer ratio and metabolite concentrations with NOA etiology.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 48 consecutive men with NOA and 18 age-matched controls. All participants underwent scrotal MRI. Testicular apparent diffusion coefficient, fractional anisotropy, magnetization transfer ratio and normalized metabolite concentrations were calculated. NOA men were classified into three groups, based on etiology: group 1, idiopathic; group 2, genetic causes; and, group 3, non-genetic causes. Parametric and nonparametric statistical tests were used to evaluate differences in MRI parameters between NOA groups and normal testes (group 4). Regression analysis was performed to assess the most predictive MRI factor of NOA etiology.
RESULTS: Differences in mean apparent diffusion coefficient (P < .001), fractional anisotropy (P < .001), magnetization transfer ratio (P < .001), and normalized concentrations of total choline (P = .005), glucose (P = .012), myo-inositol (P = .024), and lipids (P = .010) were observed among groups. Regression analysis failed to identify the most discriminating MRI feature for NOA etiology.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Apparent diffusion coefficient, fractional anisotropy, magnetization transfer ratio and normalized concentrations of total choline, glucose, myo-inositol, and lipids are helpful in discriminating NOA etiology. MRI may provide useful, noninvasive information on microstructural and biochemical milieu of NOA testes. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
PMID:34423558 | DOI:10.1111/andr.13101
