Phosphorus-31 MRS of human testicular function and viability.

Overview

The current clinical use of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is explored with attention to testicular function and pathology. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy provides insights into metabolic processes that are occurring in vivo. Information on these processes were, until now, only obtained through the use of invasive procedures such as biopsy, with the attendant undesired side effects. Phosphorus-31 (31P) MRS of the testes can provide unique metabolic information noninvasively and may provide clinicians with an alternative to the invasive procedures. The practical applicability of 31P MRS to the study of human infertility and testicular pathologies is described in some very preliminary studies.