Testicular tumors of adrenogenital syndrome: From physiopathology to therapy

Presse Med. 2017 Jun;46(6 Pt 1):572-578. doi: 10.1016/j.lpm.2017.05.006. Epub 2017 May 23.

Abstract

Testicular tumor of adrenogenital syndrome is a rare and benign anomaly usually presenting as bilateral testicular masses. It is the most important cause of infertility in adult male congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Distinction between testicular tumors of adrenogenital syndrome and Leydig cell tumors can be problematic; it is based on clinical, histopathologic, immunohistochemical and endocrine features. Biopsy is advised in cases of longstanding tumors in infertile patients and when surgery is indicated. Fertility preservation is a key management goal in testicular tumor of adrenogenital syndrome. In stages 2 and 3, intensified glucocorticoid treatment is recommended as a first step treatment. Sparing surgical approach is preferred for tumors of stage 4 and steroid unresponsive masses. Magnetic resonance imaging is recommended before surgery. The only indication of surgery in stage 5 is testicular pain.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Rest Tumor / diagnosis
  • Adrenal Rest Tumor / pathology
  • Adrenal Rest Tumor / physiopathology
  • Adrenal Rest Tumor / therapy
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / blood
  • Adrenogenital Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Adrenogenital Syndrome / pathology
  • Adrenogenital Syndrome / physiopathology*
  • Adrenogenital Syndrome / therapy*
  • Adult
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Leydig Cell Tumor / diagnosis
  • Leydig Cell Tumor / pathology
  • Leydig Cell Tumor / physiopathology
  • Leydig Cell Tumor / therapy
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Testicular Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Testicular Neoplasms / pathology
  • Testicular Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Testicular Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Testis / pathology
  • Testis / physiopathology

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone