Emerging imaging modalities for the diagnosis of malignant lesions of the male reproductive tract in companion animals.

Understanding diseases that affect the male reproductive system of dogs and cats is important for improving their health and quality of life. Imaging techniques, such as ultrasound and X-rays, play a fundamental role in the evaluation of this system. They help veterinarians detect problems in the testicles, prostate, and other reproductive organs of dogs and cats. In recent years, advanced ultrasound methods, such as Doppler, elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, have become more accessible and allow earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Although definitive diagnosis of neoplastic lesions depends on cytological or histopathological examinations, radiography and advanced ultrasonography contribute significantly to early detection and malignancy characterization. This literature review explores the main imaging techniques used in the investigation of malignant lesions in the male reproductive tract of dogs and cats, namely radiography, B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography, elastography, and contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS). The goal is to help veterinarians make better decisions and improve care for their patients. The integration of these modalities has become well established in human medicine and shows growing applicability in veterinary practice, allowing for real-time, non-invasive assessment of the testes, prostate, penis, and scrotal structures. The compiled data highlight the potential of combining different imaging modalities to improve diagnostic accuracy and provide clinical and surgical support in the management of malignant lesions affecting the male reproductive tract in dogs and cats.