Abstract
Aims
Testicular regression syndrome (TRS or ‘vanishing testis’) is a condition in which
a testis is thought to have once existed but has atrophied and disappeared during
early development. The natural history of TRS is in completely understood, due to
the absence of any prospectively studied cohort of patients. This study aimed to quantify
the cardinal features of the disease and correlate these with age.
Materials and methods
A total of 117 cases of TRS were submitted for histopathological examination. Patient
age ranged from birth to 12 years, with a median age of 2 years. The proportion of each histological feature present was analysed according
to age, using the χ2 test.
Birth Results
The 117 cases accounted for 21% of the testicular/paratesticular specimens examined.
Only 12 cases (10%) were found to contain testicular tissue, with no readily identifiable
germ cells and in particular no atypical germ cells identified. Features such as haemosiderin-laden
macrophages, calcification, the presence of a nodule, vas or epididymis were less
prevalent amongst specimens from older boys.
Conclusions
This is the largest series studied to date. With only 10% of the removed specimens
containing identifiable testicular tissue with no germ cells seen, a negligible risk
of future germ-cell cancer on the affected side is implied. If the laparoscopic findings
suggest a diagnosis of vanishing testis, we contend that a groin exploration may be
no longer indicated.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: November 08, 2006
Accepted:
August 11,
2006
Received:
June 19,
2006
Identification
Copyright
© 2006 Journal of Pediatric Urology Company. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
