The tunica albuginea is the dense, bluish-white fibrous capsule that wraps each testis. It thickens at the back into the mediastinum testis, from which thin partitions divide the testis into lobules. It gives the testis its firm feel.
| Location | Surrounding the testis, deep to the visceral layer of the tunica vaginalis |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Testicular plexus |
| Blood Supply | Testicular artery |
| Venous drainage | |
| Lymphatic drainage |
|
Protects the testis and divides it into lobules.
A hard blow to the scrotum can split the tunica albuginea, a testicular rupture that usually needs urgent surgical repair to save the testis. Because the capsule does not stretch, swelling inside it from infection or torsion is very painful. On ultrasound a break in this bright line confirms rupture.
A tear of the tunica albuginea from blunt trauma, with extrusion of tubules; needs prompt surgical repair.
Swelling within the unyielding capsule from orchitis or torsion raises pressure and pain and may worsen blood flow.
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